Fernella Cardigan

Fernella Cardigan by Katy Farrell

What is Being Made

The Fernella Cardigan is a seamless, top-down summer cardigan designed for infants and young children, available in 6 sizes ranging from newborn (0–6 months) through age 6–7 years. This lightweight garment features a decorative lacy yoke and button-front closure, making it an ideal layering piece for warm weather wear.

Construction Method

This cardigan is knit seamlessly in one piece from the neck down, eliminating the need for seaming. The construction begins with the lacy yoke worked from the neckline, after which stitches are divided to work the fronts and back separately. The cap sleeves are completed last. The garment is designed with approximately 2 inches of ease for comfortable fit and movement.

Stitches and Techniques

The pattern employs stocking stitch as the primary fabric stitch, creating a smooth, classic knit surface. The defining design feature is a lace pattern worked on the yoke, which adds visual interest and breathability to the neckline area. The intermediate skill level reflects the lace work required, making this pattern suitable for knitters with foundational experience who are ready to tackle decorative stitch patterns.

Materials Required

• Yarn: Double knitting (DK) weight yarn in quantities ranging from 2 to 4 balls of 50g each, depending on size. The pattern samples used Rico Creative Cotton DK and Wendy Supreme 100% Luxury Cotton, both suitable for summer garments.
• Needles: 4mm circular knitting needles for the main construction and 4mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) for optional sleeve work
• Notions: 3 buttons, each 1cm in diameter, for the front closure

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 22 stitches and 28 rows over 10 centimeters in stocking stitch. Six sizes are included with finished chest measurements ranging from 46cm (newborn) to 66cm (age 6–7 years), accommodating growth through early childhood.