Chic Highland Argyle Cardigan

Chic Highland Argyle Cardigan by Anne Berk

What is Being Made

The Chic Highland Argyle Cardigan is a classic, cozy knit cardigan designed by Anne Berk and available through Marly Bird. This garment is an oversized, lightweight cardigan perfect for layering over any outfit. The design features argyle patterning on the front pieces, making it a sophisticated and on-trend piece suitable for various occasions. The cardigan is available in seven sizes, ranging from 36" to 64" to fit bust circumferences from 40" to 70" when finished, with 4–6" of positive ease built into the design.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project incorporates argyle patterning as its signature design element. The argyle technique, while requiring some attention to detail, is made accessible through video instruction from Anne Berk of Annetarsia Knits. The designer notes that even adventurous beginners can successfully complete this cardigan with proper video guidance. The construction uses basic cardigan shaping combined with the more intricate argyle colorwork on the front pieces, creating a classic garment with visual interest.

Stitches and Construction

While specific stitch abbreviations are not detailed in the provided content, the cardigan employs fundamental knitting stitches combined with argyle colorwork techniques. The argyle pattern requires working with multiple colors to create the distinctive diamond shapes and cross-hatching characteristic of traditional argyle designs. The overall construction appears straightforward in its basic structure, allowing the argyle patterning on the front to be the focal point of the design.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn Weight: This cardigan is worked in worsted weight yarn. The designer specifically notes that the wool yarn used is exceptionally lightweight—"almost lighter than air"—making it a pleasure to knit with and wear as a finished garment. The lightness of the yarn contributes to the cardigan's wearability as a layering piece despite its oversized fit.

Needles: Specific needle sizes and materials are not provided in the available pattern content.

Design Notes

The Chic Highland Argyle Cardigan draws inspiration from classic argyle traditions, with Anne Berk sharing that her mother learned to knit argyle socks in college during the 1950s. This pattern celebrates that heritage while offering a contemporary, on-trend garment. The oversized silhouette and lightweight construction make it versatile for modern wardrobes, and the inclusion of video tutorials ensures that knitters of varying experience levels can successfully complete this intermediate project.