Garter and Rib Cardigan #183

Garter and Rib Cardigan #183 by Sue McCain

What Is Being Made

The Garter and Rib Cardigan #183 is a versatile cardigan sweater designed by Sue McCain, available in sizes XXS through 6X with finished measurements ranging from 27¼ inches to 67¼ inches. This garment features a distinctive design combining garter stitch and ribbed knit sections, offering both visual interest and functional shaping. The cardigan is available with two sleeve length options: 3/4-length sleeves or full-length sleeves, allowing knitters to customize the finished garment to their preference.

Construction Techniques

This cardigan employs a sophisticated bottom-up construction method that maximizes efficiency and minimizes finishing work. The body is worked in one continuous piece up to the armholes, eliminating the need for seaming at the side seams. After the body is completed, the sleeves are picked up directly from the armhole edges and worked downward, a technique that creates seamless integration between the body and sleeves.

The pattern includes optional short-row shaping for the sleeve caps, which adds professional shaping and improved fit at the shoulder area. The garter stitch panel positioned at the bottom of the body is gently shaped to prevent the sweater from clinging to the body, creating a flattering silhouette. The 3/4-length or long sleeves feature subtle bell shaping at the cuffs, adding an elegant finishing detail to the garment.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The cardigan combines two primary stitch patterns to create visual and textural contrast. Garter stitch forms the lower panel of the body, creating a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges. Ribbed knit sections provide vertical lines and elasticity, typically used in the upper body and sleeve areas. The pattern specifies a gauge of 5 stitches in stockinette stitch over 14 wraps per inch (WPI), which establishes the tension for the entire garment.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This pattern calls for worsted weight yarn in a cotton and wool blend, offering the breathability of cotton combined with the elasticity and warmth of wool. Yardage requirements vary by size and sleeve length option. For 3/4-length sleeves, yardage ranges from 975 yards for XXS to 1,825 yards for 6X. For long sleeves, yardage increases to between 1,050 yards for XXS and 1,900 yards for 6X. The pattern requires size 6 (4 mm) needles to achieve the specified gauge.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate in difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience. The techniques involved—including seamless construction, picking up stitches, and optional short-row shaping—require solid foundational skills but are well within reach for knitters who have completed several projects.