972 Phoebe - Cardigan Knitting Pattern for Women in Valley Yarns Montague

Pattern #972 Phoebe: Striped Cotton Cardigan Knitting Pattern for Women

Pattern #972 Phoebe, designed by Julie Turjoman and published by Valley Yarns, is a beginner-friendly women's cardigan knitting pattern featuring cheerful stripes and a classic twisted rib yoke. Worked in the brand's own Valley Yarns Montague, a 100% cotton worsted-weight yarn, this cardigan is described as fun and springy — equally at home on cool spring evenings, casual weekend outings, or any occasion calling for a pop of color. Because it is constructed in separate pieces and then seamed together, it serves as an excellent introduction to sweater knitting for those who are newer to garment construction.

Sizing and Finished Measurements

The pattern is written for a wide range of sizes to suit many body types:

• Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, and 4XL
• Finished Bust (buttoned): 33¾ (37¼, 41¼, 45¾, 49¾) (53¼, 57¼, 60¾) inches
• The pattern is designed with 2 to 4 inches of positive ease, giving a relaxed, comfortable fit
• The sample shown in the pattern is knitted in Size S at a finished bust of 37¼ inches

Construction Method and Techniques

The Phoebe cardigan is constructed using a bottom-up, seamed approach — meaning each piece (back, fronts, and sleeves) is knitted separately from the lower edge upward, then joined with seams. This traditional construction method is particularly well-suited to beginner knitters because it allows each section to be worked independently, making it easier to manage and correct as you go.

Key Techniques Used

• Bottom-up construction: Each garment piece begins at the hem and is worked upward toward the shoulders, a straightforward approach that helps beginners understand garment shaping progressively
• Seamed finishing: The individual pieces are sewn together after knitting, a classic method that adds structure and stability to the finished cardigan
• Stripes: The design features a multi-color stripe sequence using three colors — the main color and two contrasting colors — creating the cardigan's signature playful, colorful look; stripe knitting at the worsted weight level is an accessible way for beginners to practice color changes
• Twisted rib yoke: The yoke is worked in twisted ribbing, a technique where stitches are knitted through the back loop to create a firmer, more defined rib texture; this adds visual interest and a polished finish to the neckline and upper body area
• Buttonhole construction: The front band includes worked buttonholes, giving knitters practice with one of the most practical and commonly used finishing techniques in garment knitting

Stitches Used

• Twisted rib stitch — used for the yoke, creating a structured, textured ribbed fabric by knitting into the back loop of each knit stitch
• Standard stockinette or similar base stitch — used throughout the body and sleeves to create a smooth fabric that showcases the stripe colorwork
• Buttonhole stitch technique — integrated into the front band for functional button closures

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for Valley Yarns Montague, a 100% cotton yarn in a worsted weight, sold in 50 g / 110-yard skeins. Cotton yarns like Montague offer a breathable, crisp drape that is ideal for spring and summer layering pieces. The pattern uses three colors:

• MC (Main Color): Color 001 White — 6 (6, 7, 8, 9) (10, 11, 11) skeins depending on size
• CC1 (Contrast Color 1): Color 007 Navy — 3 (3, 4, 4, 5) (5, 6, 6) s