Pedrine Cardigan in MODE at Rowan Cotton DK

Pedrine Cardigan Knitting Pattern by Quail Studio in MODE at Rowan Cotton DK

The Pedrine Cardigan is a classic, elegantly structured button-up cardigan designed by Quail Studio and knitted in MODE at Rowan Cotton DK yarn. This downloadable PDF pattern produces a timeless, fitted cardigan with a neat ribbed hem and a clean, polished silhouette. It is rated advanced beginner, making it an ideal next step for knitters who have mastered the basics and are ready to tackle simple shaping techniques such as armhole and neckline shaping, as well as working separate front and back pieces that are seamed together for a professional finish.

Garment Overview

The Pedrine Cardigan is a single-design pattern featuring one cohesive garment construction. The cardigan is worked in separate pieces — a Back, a Left Front, a Right Front, and sleeves — which are then seamed together. It features a button band closure fastened with six buttons, giving it a refined, structured look suitable for a wide range of occasions. The sample shown in the pattern photography is knitted in Pearl 010, a soft neutral shade from the MODE at Rowan Cotton DK range.

Sizing and Fit

The Pedrine Cardigan is available in an impressive nine sizes, designed to fit chest measurements ranging from 71–76 cm (28–30 in) up to 152–157 cm (60–62 in). The actual finished chest measurements of the garment range from 86.5 cm (34 in) to 165.5 cm (65¼ in), providing generous positive ease across all sizes. This wide size range makes the pattern highly inclusive and accessible to a broad range of knitters and body types.

Techniques Used

• Flat knitting: All pieces are worked flat on a pair of straight needles, row by row, before being seamed together.
• Ribbing: A 1×1 rib (alternating knit and purl stitches) is used for the welts and borders, worked for approximately 10 cm to create a neat, elasticated edge that holds its shape well.
• Stocking stitch (St st): The main body of the cardigan is worked in classic stocking stitch — knit on right-side rows, purl on wrong-side rows — creating a smooth, even fabric that showcases the drape of the cotton yarn beautifully.
• Shaping: The pattern includes standard armhole shaping and neckline shaping on both the back and fronts, worked through decreases and cast-offs to create a well-fitted, tailored silhouette.
• Seaming: Once all pieces are complete, the cardigan is assembled by seaming the shoulder, side, and sleeve seams together for a neat, structured finish.
• Stitch holders: Stitches are placed on holders at key points during construction, particularly during neckline shaping, to be returned to the needles later.

Stitches Used

• 1×1 Rib: Row 1 (RS): K1, *P1, K1, repeat from * to end. Row 2: P1, *K1, P1, repeat from * to end. This forms the stretchy, textured border used at the lower edges and cuffs.
• Stocking Stitch (St st): The primary stitch pattern used across the body and sleeves, producing a smooth knit fabric on the right side and a purl texture on the wrong side.

Materials and Tools

The Pedrine Cardigan is knitted using MODE at Rowan Cotton DK yarn, a DK weight (double knitting) yarn sold in 50 g balls. The quantity required ranges from 9 balls for the smallest sizes up to 13 balls for the largest size. Cotton DK yarns are known for their smooth stitch definition, breathability, and beautiful drape, making them particularly well-suited to structured garments like cardigans. The crisp nature of cotton also helps the ribbing and stocking stitch sections retain their shape over time.

The pattern calls for one pair of 3.75 mm (UK No. 9 / US