Karen Kardigan

Karen Kardigan by Born & Raised Knits

What is Being Made

The Karen Kardigan is a downloadable knitting pattern for a cardigan sweater designed by Born & Raised Knits. This intermediate-level project features a contemporary design with decorative elements and is available in three size ranges: XS-M, L-2X, and 3X-5X, making it accessible for various body types.

Yarn and Materials

This cardigan is worked primarily in DK weight yarn, combining two distinct yarns for visual interest. The main color (MC) is Alpaca DK from Hedgehog Fibres in the colorway Cross My Heart, requiring 740 yards for the smallest size, 940 yards for the medium size range, and 1140 yards for the largest size range. A contrasting color (CC) uses Sporty Singles from Hedgehog Fibres in the UFO colorway, requiring 300 yards, 380 yards, or 460 yards depending on the size being knitted.

Needles and Notions

The pattern calls for US Size 6 circular needles in both 40-inch and 16-inch lengths, as well as US Size 6 double-pointed needles for working smaller sections. US Size 4 circular needles in 9-inch length are used for the sleeves. Essential notions include stitch markers, a darning needle for finishing, and a cable needle for working cable stitches.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Karen Kardigan employs several advanced knitting techniques that elevate it beyond a basic cardigan pattern. Cable knitting creates textured, twisted stitch patterns that add visual depth and dimension to the garment. Bobble stitches are incorporated as ornamental details, created using the technique of knitting into the front and back of a stitch multiple times to form a three-dimensional bump on the fabric surface.

Garter stitch serves as the foundation stitch for gauge measurement and likely forms portions of the cardigan's structure. The pattern features stripes created by alternating between the main color alpaca yarn and the contrasting sporty singles yarn, adding visual interest and color blocking to the design.

Modular joining is employed as a construction technique, allowing different sections of the cardigan to be knitted separately and then joined together, which can simplify the knitting process and allow for creative customization of the final garment.

Pattern Format and Use

This is a downloadable PDF pattern intended for personal use only. Finished garments made from this pattern may not be resold. Knitters are encouraged to share their completed versions on Instagram using the hashtag #KarenKardigan and tagging Born & Raised Knits to showcase their interpretations of the design.