Woodstove Season

Woodstove Season Cardigan by Alicia Plummer

What Is Being Made

Woodstove Season is a top-down seamless cardigan designed by independent knitter Alicia Plummer. This garment is a feminine, body-shaping cardigan available in eight sizes ranging from XS to 4X, with finished bust measurements from 28-30 inches up to 56-58 inches. The cardigan features a flattering design with approximately 1.5 inches of positive ease for comfortable layering, and finished lengths ranging from 17.8 to 20.6 inches depending on size.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This cardigan is worked as a top-down seamless sweater constructed flat rather than in the round. The seamless construction method eliminates the need for seaming, creating a polished, professional finish. The design incorporates feminine body-shaping based on CYC sizing standards to provide a flattering silhouette across all size ranges.

The front closure features an 8-stitch rib panel that is worked together with each front section, maintaining the seamless construction throughout. The cardigan is finished with 10 or more 3/4-inch buttons, toggles, or snaps for closure options.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used in Woodstove Season is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric base. The back of the cardigan features a Deep Chevron motif, a mirror-image reversible pattern composed of 12 rows that adds visual interest and texture to the back panel. The button band utilizes rib stitch for structure and elasticity.

Yarn and Materials

Woodstove Season requires Aran weight yarn in quantities ranging from 800 yards for the smallest size (XS) to 1,700 yards for the largest size (4X). The prototype garment shown in the pattern was knitted using Brooklyn Tweed Shelter Yarn in the Embers colorway, providing a reference for yarn choice and color inspiration.

Additional notions required include a darning needle for finishing and weaving in ends, plus 10 or more 3/4-inch buttons, toggles, or snaps for the cardigan closure.

Gauge and Needles

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 4 stitches and 6 rows per 1 inch in stockinette stitch using US size 8 (5.0mm) needles. Achieving proper gauge is essential before beginning this project to ensure the finished cardigan meets the intended measurements and fit.

Difficulty Level

Woodstove Season is rated as an intermediate-level knitting project, suitable for knitters with foundational skills in seamless construction, stitch patterns, and garment shaping.