Alaska Cardigan in Rowan Alpaca Classic - Downloadable PDF

Alaska Cardigan in Rowan Alpaca Classic

What is Being Made

The Alaska Cardigan is a knitted cardigan designed to fit a range of chest sizes from 61 cm to 152-157 cm (approximately 24 inches to 60 inches). This garment features a structured shoulder construction with a back collar extension, making it a sophisticated layering piece suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Knitting Techniques Used

This advanced beginner knitting project employs several key techniques:

• Shaping: The cardigan uses strategic increases and cast-offs to create shoulder shaping, with cast-off instructions at the beginning of rows to form the shoulder line
• Pattern Work: The garment is constructed using a repeating stitch pattern that continues throughout the front and back sections
• Collar Extension: A back collar extension is created by continuing stitches in pattern after the shoulder cast-off, measuring approximately 10 to 11.5 cm depending on size
• Multi-Size Construction: The pattern provides detailed sizing across nine different chest measurements, requiring careful attention to stitch counts for each size option

Stitches Used

The Alaska Cardigan utilizes a classic ribbed stitch pattern as its foundation. Row 1 begins with a purl stitch followed by a repeating sequence of knit 2, purl 2 ribbing. This creates an elastic, textured fabric that provides structure and recovery to the finished garment.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

This pattern calls for Rowan Alpaca Classic yarn in a DK (double knit) weight. The yarn is worked in Snowflake White (color 115) as shown in the photographed sample. Yarn requirements range from 14 to 24 balls of 25-gram skeins depending on the finished size selected. The project is worked on 3¾mm (US 5) needles, which is the appropriate needle size for DK weight yarn to achieve proper fabric drape and structure.

Yarn Fiber Content

Rowan Alpaca Classic is composed of alpaca fiber, known for its softness, breathability, and luxurious feel against the skin. Alpaca yarn provides excellent insulation while remaining lightweight, making the Alaska Cardigan suitable for layering across multiple seasons.