Paridae

Paridae Hooded Cardigan by Teresa Gregorio

What Is Being Made

Paridae is an advanced-level knitted hooded cardigan designed by Teresa Gregorio. This garment is a comfortable, cozy sweater featuring a generous hood designed to keep your head and shoulders warm, paired with extra-long sleeves that extend far enough to pull over your fingers. The cardigan is available in eight sizes ranging from XS to XXXXL, with bust measurements from 30 inches (76 cm) to 58 inches (147 cm), making it accessible for a wide range of body types.

Construction Method and Techniques

Paridae is knit from the bottom up using a seamless construction method. The sleeves are attached at the yoke, and strategic decreases lead up to the hood, creating a practically seamless garment that minimizes finishing work. This top-down yoke approach combined with bottom-up body knitting demonstrates advanced shaping techniques that result in a well-fitted, professional-looking cardigan.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used in Paridae is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric ideal for showcasing the luxurious yarn. The gauge for this project is 18 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch, which is essential information for achieving proper fit and drape in the finished cardigan.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Yarn: Paridae is designed to be knit with Zen Yarn Garden Serenity Worsted, a premium blend consisting of 75% superwash merino, 15% cashmere, and 15% nylon. This fiber composition provides durability, softness, and easy care. Each hank contains 175 yards (160 meters). The yardage requirements vary by size: XS requires 7 hanks, progressing to 16 hanks for the largest XXXXL size. The sample shown is worked in Terracotta, a warm, earthy colorway.

Needles: This project requires 4.5 mm (US 7) circular needles in approximately 16-inch (40 cm) length for working the body and yoke, as well as double-pointed needles (dpns) for working smaller circumferences, particularly in the hood and sleeve caps.

Notions and Finishing

• Four toggle buttons, each 1.5 inches (4 cm) in diameter, for the cardigan closure
• Scrap yarn for stitch holders and temporary stitches during construction
• Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points

This downloadable PDF pattern from independent designer Teresa Gregorio offers a sophisticated, wearable cardigan perfect for autumn and cooler seasons, combining advanced knitting techniques with luxurious, high-quality yarn to create a garment that is both beautiful and practical.