Frihed

Frihed Cardigan by HelstrupDesign

What Is Being Made

Frihed is a short, oversize cardigan featuring a V-neckline, designed by independent designer HelstrupDesign. The name "Frihed" is Danish for "freedom," reflecting the relaxed, comfortable fit of this intermediate-level knitting project. The cardigan is available in six sizes ranging from S to XXXL, with finished chest widths from 116 to 158 centimeters and lengths from 52 to 59 centimeters, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various body types and styling preferences.

Techniques and Construction

This knitting pattern employs fundamental cardigan construction techniques appropriate for intermediate knitters. The garment is worked using circular needles, a common method that allows for seamless or nearly seamless construction and the ability to try on the piece as you progress. The V-neckline requires shaping through strategic decreases to create the characteristic diagonal lines that frame the front opening. Button bands are incorporated into the design, requiring careful stitch pickup and finishing along the front edges to ensure a polished, professional appearance.

Stitches and Stitch Details

While the complete stitch pattern information is referenced in the gauge section, the pattern utilizes a 20-stitch gauge measurement, indicating the use of stockinette stitch or similar standard knit stitches that are typical for DK-weight yarn projects. The construction likely incorporates knit and purl combinations for structure and shaping, with decreases strategically placed to form the V-neckline and ensure proper fit throughout the garment.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

Frihed is designed for DK-weight yarn with a recommended yardage of approximately 210–225 meters per 100 grams. Total yarn requirements range from 700–750 grams for size S to 950–1000 grams for size XXXL. The pattern suggests several high-quality yarn options including UK Alpaca Super Fine DK, Madeline Tosh Tosh DK, West Yorkshire Spinners Illustrious, and West Yorkshire Spinners Bluefaced Leicester Solids DK. The pictured sample in size L was hand-dyed with indigo using 100% merino wool from Chester Wool Company in a merino DK weight, demonstrating the beautiful results possible with premium natural fibers.

Needles and Notions

• Needles: One 4 mm circular needle measuring 60 centimeters (24 inches) for the main body, and one 4 mm circular needle measuring 40 centimeters (16 inches) or 4 mm double-pointed knitting needles for smaller circumference sections such as the neckline
• Notions: Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, a yarn needle for weaving in ends, and buttons for the front cardigan closure

Gauge and Customization

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for this project, as the pattern emphasizes that every knitter's gauge is unique. Knitters are advised to always use a needle size that produces the listed gauge of 20 stitches, ensuring that the finished measurements match the intended design. This flexibility in needle selection accommodates individual tension differences while maintaining garment proportions across all six sizes.