Sorrento Cardigan in Erika Knight Studio Linen - Downloadable PDF

Sorrento Cardigan by Erika Knight – Knitting Pattern Summary

The Sorrento Cardigan is a sophisticated, jacket-style edge-to-edge cardigan designed by Erika Knight and worked in Erika Knight Studio Linen yarn. Available as a downloadable PDF, this intermediate-level knitting pattern delivers a relaxed yet refined silhouette that blends classic construction techniques with elegant textural detail. The design is ideal for knitters who are comfortable with shaping, working yarn double, and integrating structural elements directly into the knitting process.

What Is Being Made

The Sorrento is a longline, open-front cardigan with a jacket-inspired aesthetic. Key design features include:

• Edge-to-edge front opening with no buttons or fastenings, giving it a relaxed, draped silhouette
• Integral rib front selvedge bands worked as part of the main knitting rather than picked up separately
• Revere collar for a tailored, jacket-like finish
• Patch pockets for both practical and decorative detail
• Set-in or structured sleeves with defined underarm measurements

The pattern is sized from S through XXL, with finished bust measurements ranging from 98cm / 38½in up to 122cm / 48¼in. Lengths range from 58cm to 70cm, and sleeve lengths from 38cm to 42cm underarm, making this a well-graded pattern across a generous size range.

Techniques Used

The Sorrento Cardigan employs a combination of techniques that make it a rewarding project for an intermediate knitter:

• Yarn held double – the entire garment is worked with the yarn used double, which creates a denser, more structured fabric and affects gauge significantly
• Integral rib selvedge bands – front bands are worked in rib as part of the main fabric, requiring careful attention to stitch counts and band integration rather than a separate finishing step
• Revere collar construction – a shaped collar that folds back to create a lapel-style effect, adding complexity and a couture-inspired finish
• Patch pocket construction – pockets are knitted separately and sewn on, a classic technique that adds dimension to the fronts
• Shaping and sizing – the pattern includes multi-size instructions requiring the knitter to follow their chosen size throughout

Stitches Used

The fabric of the Sorrento is built primarily from two contrasting stitch textures, creating visual interest across the garment:

• Reverse stocking stitch / reverse stockinette stitch – the purl side of the fabric is used as the right side, giving the garment a softly textured, matte surface that suits the linen yarn beautifully
• Stocking stitch / stockinette stitch – used in combination with reverse stocking stitch to create contrast panels or structural sections
• Rib stitch – used for the integral front selvedge bands, providing elasticity and a neat, defined edge

The interplay between reverse stocking stitch and stocking stitch is a hallmark of considered knitwear design, adding depth and tactile quality without the need for complex colourwork or cables.

Materials – Yarn and Needles

The pattern is written specifically for Erika Knight Studio Linen, a premium yarn with a composition of 85% recycled linen and 15% premium linen. This yarn is supplied in 50g / 1¾oz hanks, each containing approximately 120m / 131 yards. The quantity required ranges from 14 to 18 hanks depending on size, reflecting the generous length of the garment and the use of yarn held double throughout.

Studio Linen is a DK weight yarn that, when held double, knits to a heavier gauge. Linen-based yarns are known for their natural drape, breath