Marzen Cardigan in Berroco Ultra Wool DK - Downloadable PDF

Marzen Cardigan in Berroco Ultra Wool DK – Pattern Summary

About This Design

The Marzen Cardigan is a sophisticated, relaxed-fit open-front cardigan designed by Thea Colman and knitted in Berroco Ultra Wool DK. This is version 2 of the pattern, available as a downloadable PDF. The design features a distinctive textured surface, a collar, and integrated front bands — all worked as part of a single, thoughtfully constructed piece. It is rated Intermediate in difficulty, making it an excellent project for knitters who are comfortable with shaping, working in the round, and reading multi-row stitch patterns.

Finished Measurements and Sizing

The Marzen Cardigan is offered in eight sizes, with a finished bust measurement (worn open) ranging from 38¾" to 57½". Specific sizes are:

• 38¾, 40½, 43½, 46¼, 49¼, 51¼, 55, and 57½ inches bust circumference
• Length ranges from 24½" to 31½" depending on size

The sample shown in the pattern photography is knitted in size 40½" with approximately 4 inches of ease, giving the garment its characteristically relaxed, draped silhouette. This generous ease makes the Marzen Cardigan a comfortable everyday layering piece.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern calls for Berroco Ultra Wool DK, a 100-gram skein yarn, used throughout in two strands held together. This double-stranding technique is a key feature of the construction — it creates a denser, warmer fabric with excellent stitch definition while still allowing the DK-weight yarn to remain the specified material. The colorway shown is #83104 Driftwood, a warm neutral tone.

Yarn requirements by size are:

• 7 (8, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13) balls of Berroco Ultra Wool DK, 100g each

In addition to yarn, knitters will need:

• 29–36" circular needles in size 9 (5.50 mm) and size 10 (6.00 mm), or sizes needed to obtain gauge
• Tapestry needle for seaming and finishing
• Stitch markers
• Waste yarn or stitch holders for holding live stitches during construction

Gauge

Because yarn is held double throughout, all gauges are measured with two strands together. Achieving accurate gauge is especially important in a garment with this many size options. The pattern specifies multiple gauges for different sections:

• 17 sts and 20 rows = 4" in Textured Stripe Motif on the smaller needle (size 9)
• 16 sts and 20 rows = 4" in Stockinette stitch on the larger needle (size 10)
• 18 sts and 20 rows = 4" in 1x1 ribbing on the smaller needle (used for sleeve cuffs)
• 17 sts and 20 rows = 4" in 1x1 ribbing on the larger needle (used for hem ribbing)

Construction Techniques

The Marzen Cardigan uses a combination of construction methods that intermediate knitters will find engaging and instructive. The overall approach is bottom-up, beginning at the lower hem and working upward.

• Bottom-up construction: The sweater body begins at the hem and is shaped upward toward the shoulders, a classic and intuitive approach that allows for easy length adjustments.
• Worked flat and in the round: The body — including the front bands and collar — is knitted in one piece