Shiregreen Cardigan in Erika Knight Wild Wool - 72001113 - Downloadable PDF

Shiregreen Cardigan by Emma Wright

What is Being Made

The Shiregreen Cardigan is a raglan style edge-to-edge cardigan designed for intermediate knitters. This versatile layering piece features a sophisticated construction with ribbed and cable stitch pattern work on the front and back panels, contrasted by smooth stocking stitch sleeves. The cardigan's sides remain open and are fastened with practical garter stitch ties, creating an adjustable fit and contemporary silhouette. Available in five sizes ranging from XS to XL, with finished chest measurements from 101cm (39¾in) to 142cm (56in).

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The Shiregreen employs several key knitting techniques to achieve its refined aesthetic. The raglan sleeve construction creates smooth, diagonal lines from the underarm to the neckline, a hallmark of classic cardigan design. The pattern incorporates an arrowhead cable detail worked into the front and back panels, adding textural interest and visual depth. The edge-to-edge construction means the cardigan closes without traditional buttons or fastenings, instead relying on the garter stitch ties at the sides for closure and adjustment. This design approach offers flexibility in fit and a modern, minimalist aesthetic.

Stitches Used

• Deep Rib Stitch: Used on the front and back panels to create vertical texture and structure
• Cable Stitch: Featured prominently with an arrowhead cable pattern on the fronts and back for dimensional detail
• Stocking Stitch: Applied on the contrast sleeves for a smooth, refined finish
• Garter Stitch: Used for the side ties that fasten the cardigan

Materials and Specifications

The Shiregreen is knitted in Erika Knight Wild Wool, a natural fiber blend consisting of 85% wool and 15% viscose (nettle). Each hank weighs 100g (3oz) and provides approximately 170m (186yds) of yarn. The yarn weight is classified as aran, a medium weight ideal for creating structured garments with good drape and durability.

The pattern requires 5 to 8 hanks depending on size: XS requires 5 hanks, S and M require 6 hanks each, L requires 7 hanks, and XL requires 8 hanks. Knitting is worked on 5mm (US 8) needles, with a gauge of 18 stitches and 26 rows over a 10cm (4in) square measured in stocking stitch. A 5mm (US 8) circular needle is also used during construction, worked straight for larger sections.

Finished Measurements

• XS: Chest 101cm (39¾in), Length 52cm (20½in), Sleeve Length 36cm (14¼in)
• S: Chest 111cm (43½in), Length 57cm (22½in), Sleeve Length 36cm (14¼in)
• M: Chest 121cm (47½in), Length 60cm (23¾in), Sleeve Length 37cm (14½in)
• L: Chest 132cm (52in), Length 62cm (24½in), Sleeve Length 38cm (15in)
• XL: Chest 142cm (56in), Length 68cm (26½in), Sleeve Length 40cm (15¾in)

Note: Finished chest measurements are taken after the arrowhead cable is completed, ensuring accurate sizing for this fitted style.