Viator

Viator Cardigan by Henna Markkanen

What is Being Made

Viator is an open, cable-adorned cardigan designed by Henna Markkanen. This garment features a distinctive open front design where the fronts do not overlap, leaving an opening approximately the width of the neck between them. The cardigan is intended to be worn with 0–1" of positive ease at the bust, offering a comfortable, relaxed fit. Finished bust measurements range from 32" to 44.5" across seven sizes, accommodating a wide range of body types.

Construction and Design Features

The Viator cardigan is worked from the bottom up in separate pieces, allowing for intuitive construction and easy customization during the knitting process. The design incorporates thoughtful shaping, including waist shaping to create a flattering silhouette. The sleeves are set-in style, providing a classic fitted appearance at the armhole.

A striking cable pattern rises from the center of the back and separates in a V-shape at the shoulder blades, creating visual interest and movement in the design. This cable detail serves as a focal point while the remainder of the cardigan maintains a clean aesthetic.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Stockinette stitch – forms the primary fabric throughout most of the cardigan, creating a smooth, classic knit surface
• Garter stitch – used for borders, providing structure and a textured frame for the garment openings
• Cable stitch – featured prominently in the back panel, rising from the center and splitting into a V-formation at the shoulders
• Yarn braids – serve as the closure method, offering a decorative and functional alternative to traditional buttons or zippers

Materials and Yarn Weight

The Viator cardigan is designed to be knitted with aran weight yarn, a medium-weight yarn that works up at a moderate gauge. This yarn weight is ideal for creating a fabric with good drape and structure, suitable for the cable work and overall construction of this cardigan. Knitters will need appropriate needles sized for aran yarn to achieve the correct gauge and finished measurements specified in the pattern.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience. The combination of shaping, cable work, and set-in sleeves requires solid foundational skills and the ability to follow more complex instructions, though the separate-pieces construction method helps manage complexity throughout the project.