1246 Sonora - Cardigan Knitting Pattern for Women in Valley Yarns Becket by Valley Yarns

Pattern #1246 Sonora: A-Line Cable Cardigan Coat Knitting Pattern for Women by Valley Yarns

Pattern #1246 Sonora, designed by Julie Turjoman and published by Valley Yarns, is an intermediate-level knitting pattern for a stunning A-line cardigan coat worked in Valley Yarns Becket, a luxurious 50% Superfine Alpaca / 50% Wool blend. This downloadable PDF pattern produces a cool-weather wardrobe staple that combines elegant textural details with bold cable work, making it a sophisticated yet wearable layering piece for women.

What Is Being Made

The finished garment is a long, A-line cardigan coat with an overlapping front closure, making it both stylish and functional. The silhouette is shaped from the hem upward, creating a flattering A-line profile that transitions into a more fitted body above the armholes. The cardigan features an overlapping front closure secured with buttons, deep textured cuffs, a bold shaped collar, and optional patch pockets. It is shown in Color 12 – Dark Teal, a rich, deep hue that complements the alpaca-wool blend's natural sheen and drape.

Sizes and Fit

The pattern is written for sizes XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, and 4XL, offering an inclusive range of sizing. The shown sample is Size XS. Finished bust measurements range from 32½" to 60½" with the front buttoned, and hip measurements range from 38½" to 66½". The design is intended to be worn with 2"–4" of positive ease, giving the cardigan a relaxed, coat-like fit that layers comfortably over other garments.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for Valley Yarns Becket, a worsted-weight yarn composed of 50% Superfine Alpaca and 50% Wool, sold in 100g skeins with approximately 141 yards each. The alpaca content gives the fabric a soft, lightweight drape and subtle sheen, while the wool provides structure, elasticity, and warmth — an ideal combination for a substantial cardigan coat. Depending on size, the pattern requires 7 to 16 balls of Becket.

• Primary needles: US size 9 (5.5 mm) circular needles in 24"–40" and 12"–24" lengths, or double-pointed needles (DPNs)
• Secondary needles: US size 8 (5.0 mm) circular needles or DPNs, used specifically for the collar and sleeve cuffs
• Additional materials: Stitch markers (including 2 in a unique color), cable needle, tapestry needle, sewing needle and thread, and locking stitch markers (optional, for pockets)
• Buttons: 6 to 7 buttons at ¾" diameter, quantity depending on size

Gauge

Achieving accurate gauge is important for proper fit. The pattern specifies 16 stitches and 22 rows/rounds = 4 inches in stockinette stitch on US size 9 needles, blocked. The 20-stitch cable panel measures 3½" wide on US size 9 needles, also blocked. Knitters are encouraged to swatch and block before beginning, as the alpaca content in Becket can cause fabric to relax and bloom after washing.

Construction and Techniques

The Sonora cardigan is a seamed, worked-flat project, meaning the body pieces are knitted back and forth in rows and then assembled. This construction method gives the finished garment clean seam lines that add structure and help the A-line coat hold its shape over time.

• Body construction: The cardigan body is worked flat from the double seed stitch hem upward to the armholes, incorporating A-line shaping. The work is then divided for the back and two front panels.
• Sleeves: Sleeves are worked in the round, picked up from the armholes and worked downward with decrease shaping, ending in deep double seed stitch cuffs. The shortest circular needle or D