Buhle

Buhle Cardigan by BiggerthanlifeKnits

What is Being Made

Buhle is a fitted cardigan designed by Noma Ndlovu, featuring a flattering silhouette with a fitted bust and lightly flared hem. This top-down knit cardigan is worked in one piece from the neckline downward, making it an efficient and satisfying project for intermediate knitters. The design includes simple yet visually engaging cable details that add texture and interest to the finished garment.

Construction and Techniques

This cardigan is constructed using the top-down method, which allows knitters to try on the garment as it progresses and easily adjust the length to their preference. The sleeves are worked from the top down with short rows incorporated to shape the sleeve caps, creating a well-fitted armhole and professional finish. The body is worked in the round on circular needles before being divided for the front and back sections. The cable pattern runs throughout the body, providing visual interest while maintaining a manageable intermediate skill level.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The primary stitch used in this cardigan is stockinette stitch, which forms the smooth, classic base fabric. Cable stitches are featured as the main design element, creating texture and dimension across the garment. The cables are worked using a cable needle to cross stitches over one another, a fundamental technique that intermediate knitters should be comfortable executing. Short-row shaping is used at the sleeve caps to create a three-dimensional fit that accommodates the natural slope of the shoulder.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Buhle is designed to be worked in Aran weight yarn, specifically using Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran in the colorway Grey. This yarn blend contains 55% Merino Wool, 33% Acrylic, and 12% Cashmere, offering a soft, luxurious feel with excellent durability. Each 50g ball yields approximately 90 meters (98 yards). Yardage requirements range from 9 to 15 balls depending on the finished size, accommodating sizes from XS through 5XL.

Needles, Notions, and Tools

This pattern requires the following needles and notions:

• US 8 (5.0 mm) circular needles in 32-inch (80 cm) length for working the main fabric at the correct gauge
• US 9 (5.5 mm) circular needles in 32-inch (80 cm) length for ribbing or other sections requiring slightly looser tension
• Cable needle for crossing stitches when working cable patterns
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends
• 2 safety pins for holding stitches
• 3 stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points
• 3 buttons, each 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide, for the cardigan front closure

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 19 stitches and 24 rows in stockinette stitch over 4 inches (10 cm) using US 8 (5.0 mm) needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the proper finished measurements and fit. The cardigan is available in nine sizes ranging from XS to 5XL, making it accessible to a wide range of body types and preferences.

Difficulty Level

This cardigan is rated as an intermediate project, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to tackle more complex shaping and stitch patterns. The combination of top-down construction, short-row shaping, and cable work provides an engaging challenge without being overwhelming for experienced knitters looking to expand their skills.