Clara

Clara Cardigan by VERSACIKNITS

What is Being Made

Clara is a beginner-friendly cardigan pattern available in nine sizes ranging from XS to 5X. The design features an oversized fit with a curved hemline where the back extends longer than the front, creating a modern, flattering silhouette. The cardigan is fastened with five sew-on snaps, offering a contemporary alternative to traditional buttons. The finished chest measurements range from 40 inches (102cm) in the smallest size to 76 inches (193cm) in the largest size, with corresponding length adjustments across the size range.

Techniques Used

The Clara cardigan is constructed using several key knitting techniques suitable for beginner-level knitters. The body is worked as a single, all-in-one piece using the back-and-forth method on a circular needle, eliminating the need for seaming multiple components together. Short rows are employed to create the curved hemline and achieve the shaping that distinguishes the back from the front. Slipped stitch techniques are incorporated into the construction, adding texture and structural definition to the garment. This methodical approach allows knitters to build confidence while creating a polished, professional-looking finished piece.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch used throughout the Clara cardigan is stockinette stitch (St st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a flat appearance on the right side and bumpy texture on the wrong side. Slipped stitches are also utilized as part of the shaping and construction techniques. The pattern incorporates stitch markers and stitch holders (or waste yarn as an alternative) to help track progress and manage stitches during the short-row shaping process.

Materials

• Yarn: Bijou Basin Ranch Himalayan Trail, a luxury blend of 75% pure yak down and 25% super fine merino, with each skein providing 200 yards and weighing 2 ounces. The pattern requires 6 to 12 skeins depending on size, totaling approximately 1160 to 2 yards of yarn. This yarn weight is classified as DK (double knitting), a versatile weight that produces drape and fluidity ideal for cardigan construction.
• Needles: US size 7 (4.5mm) circular needles in a 32-inch (80cm) length, or the size needed to achieve the specified gauge. Circular needles are used throughout the pattern even for flat, back-and-forth knitting, providing flexibility and comfort during extended knitting sessions.
• Notions: Five sew-on snaps in size 10 or a preferred alternative size for closure, stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points, and stitch holders or waste yarn for temporarily securing stitches during construction.

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches (10cm) when worked in stockinette stitch. Achieving the correct gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the finished cardigan matches the intended measurements and drape. Gauge swatches should be washed and blocked according to yarn fiber content to account for any changes in the finished fabric.