Mariette Cardigan in Berroco Arno - Downloadable PDF

Mariette Cardigan in Berroco Arno by Amy Christoffers – Pattern Summary

The Mariette Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitting pattern designed by Amy Christoffers and published by Berroco. It is available as a downloadable PDF and features a sophisticated striped cardigan with a classic, flattering silhouette. The design is offered in nine sizes with a finished bust measurement (closed, including front band) ranging from 35¾" to 72½" (91–184 cm) and a suggested positive ease of 2–4 inches (5–10 cm). The sample shown in the pattern photography is knitted in size 40½" / 103 cm. Finished lengths range from 20" to 23½" (51–59.5 cm) depending on size, making this a versatile mid-length cardigan suitable for a wide range of body types.

Construction Method

The Mariette Cardigan is a seamed, bottom-up design that combines both flat and in-the-round knitting techniques. Understanding the construction sequence is helpful for knitters planning their project:

• Body: The body is worked in one piece from the bottom up to the underarms, then divided for the back and two fronts, which are each worked separately in rows (flat) to the shoulders.
• Sleeves: The sleeves are worked in the round from the cuff up to the underarms, at which point the sleeve caps are worked in rows (flat) to shape the cap.
• Finishing: Because this is a seamed construction, knitters will join the sleeves to the body after completion. A front band is also included and accounts for the total closed bust measurement.

This combination of in-the-round and flat knitting makes the Mariette an excellent project for intermediate knitters looking to build confidence with both techniques in a single, cohesive garment.

Stripe Design and Color Work

One of the most distinctive design elements of the Mariette Cardigan is its elegant stripe sequence, worked using three carefully coordinated colors of Berroco Arno. The pattern defines a Stripe Sequence A that is worked both in rows (flat) and in the round, ensuring the stripe pattern remains consistent across all sections of the garment. The stripe repeat is a simple four-row (or four-round) sequence that alternates between two colors, creating clean, even horizontal stripes throughout the body and sleeves. This type of two-color stripe work is beginner-friendly within the intermediate pattern context, as it requires only basic color management — carrying or cutting yarn at the edges — rather than complex colorwork techniques like stranded knitting or intarsia.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Stockinette stitch (St st): The primary stitch used throughout the body and sleeves, worked both flat (knit on RS, purl on WS) and in the round (knit every round). Gauge is set in stockinette stitch.
• Stripe sequences: Structured, repeating stripe patterns using multiple colors, worked both flat and in the round.
• Sleeve cap shaping: Worked in rows after the sleeve is completed in the round, requiring standard raglan or set-in shaping techniques.
• Front band: Worked as part of the finishing to create a clean, structured cardigan opening.
• Seaming: Sleeves are seamed into the body, a technique that adds durability and structure to the finished garment.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for Berroco Arno, a DK weight yarn sold in 50-gram balls. Three colorways are used:

• #5003 Biscotti (C1): Used in smaller quantities for accent stripes — (2, 3, 3) [3, 4, 4] {4, 5, 5} balls depending on size.
• #5096 Dulce de Leche (C2): The primary color, requiring the largest quantity — (5, 6, 6