Blaise - Cardigan Knitting Pattern For Women in Debbie Bliss Piper

Blaise Cardigan Knitting Pattern for Women – Debbie Bliss Piper

The Blaise is a women's cardigan knitting pattern designed by Debbie Bliss, worked in the designer's own Piper yarn. This is a classic, fitted cardigan constructed using traditional methods, making it an excellent project for intermediate knitters who are comfortable with shaping, seaming, and working flat pieces. The finished garment features a neat ribbed fabric throughout, button bands, set-in sleeves, and a shaped back neck — all hallmarks of a well-tailored, timeless knitwear design.

Sizing and Finished Measurements

The Blaise cardigan is available in four sizes, designed to fit bust measurements of 81, 86, 92, and 97 cm (32, 34, 36, and 38 inches). The finished bust measurements are 81, 86, 92, and 98 cm (32, 34, 36½, and 38½ inches), offering minimal ease for a close, flattering fit. The finished length ranges from 54 to 57 cm (approximately 21¼ to 22½ inches) depending on size, and the sleeve length is a consistent 29 cm (11½ inches) across all sizes — suggesting a three-quarter or elbow-length sleeve.

An important note from the pattern: because the entire garment is worked in a twisted rib stitch, the fabric has considerable stretch. This means the cardigan will closely hug the body when the rib is not extended, but can comfortably accommodate up to three sizes larger than the stated finished measurement. This is a key design feature to keep in mind when choosing your size.

Materials Required

The pattern calls for Debbie Bliss Piper yarn in Cloud 02, a soft, pale shade. Piper is a DK weight (double knitting) yarn, sold in 100g balls. The quantity required is:

• 6 balls for sizes 81 cm and 86 cm
• 7 balls for size 92 cm
• 8 balls for size 97 cm

In addition to the yarn, you will need the following needles and notions:

• 3.25mm (US 3) circular needle, medium length — used for the cast-on and button band sections
• 3.75mm (US 5) circular needle, medium length — used for the main body ribbing
• Pair of 3.25mm (US 3) straight knitting needles
• Pair of 3.75mm (US 5) straight knitting needles
• 14 buttons for sizes 81 cm and 86 cm, or 15 buttons for sizes 92 cm and 97 cm

Tension and Gauge

The stated tension is 28 stitches and 32 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over rib using 3.75mm (US 5) needles. Achieving the correct tension is especially important with a ribbed fabric, as the natural elasticity of rib means even small deviations can significantly affect the finished size and fit. Knitters are encouraged to swatch carefully and adjust needle size as needed before casting on.

Construction Method

The Blaise cardigan is worked flat (back and forth in rows) and constructed bottom-up. The garment pieces — back, fronts, and sleeves — are worked separately and then seamed together, following traditional tailored knitwear construction. This approach gives the finished cardigan excellent structure and a professional, polished appearance.

The back and front pieces are begun on 3.25mm (US 3) circular needles with a large cast-on (171 to 207 stitches depending on size), then the work transitions to 3.75mm (US 5) needles for the main body. The use of circular needles for flat knitting on a large stitch count is a practical choice, as it allows the weight of the fabric to rest comfortably in the knitter's lap rather than on the needle tips.

Techniques Used