K211-Salsa Cardigan

Salsa Cardigan by Nazanin Fard

What is Being Made

The Salsa Cardigan is a side-to-side knitted cardigan designed by Nazanin Fard. This garment features a distinctive shawl collar and is constructed using a creative approach that allows crafters to utilize multiple yarn colors and textures from their stash. The cardigan is available in four sizes: Small, Medium, Large, and X-Large, making it accessible for various body types.

Construction Method and Technique

This cardigan is knitted from side to side, beginning at one cuff and ending at the opposite cuff. This construction method is particularly practical for stash busting, as it allows knitters to incorporate one ball each of various yarns throughout the project. The side-to-side approach creates natural color transitions and stripe patterns as different yarns are introduced during the knitting process.

The pattern uses the Fibonacci series to determine stripe widths, creating mathematically balanced color changes that are both visually interesting and structurally sound. This technique can be worked in solid colors for a more traditional look or with variegated yarns for added visual complexity and texture.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout the Salsa Cardigan is garter stitch, which is created by knitting every row. Garter stitch provides a reversible, textured fabric with excellent drape and is ideal for a cardigan that showcases multiple yarn colors and textures. This fundamental stitch makes the pattern suitable for intermediate-level knitters who have mastered basic knitting techniques.

Materials and Specifications

• Yarn: Medium (Worsted) weight yarns from various yarn companies, using one ball each of multiple colors or textures. Individual ball yardages range from 400 yards (366 m) to 550 yards (503 m). The pattern also specifies 100% merino wool superwash options available in 450 yards (412 m) and 500 yards (457 m) quantities.
• Needles: 40-inch (101 cm) circular knitting needles in sizes 6 (4 mm) and 7 (4.5 mm)
• Notions: Eight 1-inch (2.5 cm) buttons for closure

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as Intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters who have progressed beyond basic techniques and are ready to tackle garment construction with multiple color changes and shaping elements.