Saturday Cardigan in Cascade Yarns 128 Superwash - C311 - Downloadable PDF

Saturday Cardigan in Cascade Yarns 128 Superwash – A Beginner-Friendly Chunky Knit Cardigan Pattern by Cheryl Beckerich

The Saturday Cardigan is a relaxed, wearable knitted cardigan pattern designed by Cheryl Beckerich and published by Cascade Yarns. Available as a free downloadable PDF, this pattern is rated Easy in skill level, making it an excellent choice for newer knitters looking to tackle their first cardigan or for experienced knitters seeking a satisfying, low-stress project. The design is worked in a classic, comfortable silhouette with a generous size range spanning XS through 3XL, with finished bust measurements from 32 to 56 inches and lengths ranging from 28 to 30 inches depending on size.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a full-length cardigan sweater with a relaxed, cozy fit suited to everyday wear. The finished garment features a clean, classic aesthetic that lends itself well to layering. The generous length and inclusive sizing make it a versatile wardrobe staple. The name Saturday Cardigan evokes the ease and comfort of a weekend knit — both in the wearing and in the making.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern is specifically designed for Cascade Yarns 128 Superwash, a popular chunky weight yarn made from 100% Superwash Merino Wool. Each skein contains 128 yards (117 meters) and weighs 100 grams (3.5 oz). The sample is shown in color #1958 Sapphire, a rich, deep blue tone. Depending on size, the pattern calls for 7 to 13 skeins, making this an accessible project in terms of yardage planning.

The Superwash Merino fiber is a standout choice for this project. Merino wool is prized for its exceptional softness against the skin, natural warmth, and slight elasticity, which helps the finished cardigan retain its shape. The Superwash treatment means the yarn is machine washable, adding practical durability to an already luxurious fiber. Chunky weight yarn also means the project knits up quickly, which is especially rewarding for beginner knitters building confidence.

Needles and Tools

The pattern requires US 10 (6 mm) knitting needles in multiple lengths and styles to accommodate different sections of construction:

• 36-inch circular knitting needles — for working larger body sections
• 16-inch circular knitting needles — for smaller circumference sections such as sleeves or neckbands
• Double pointed knitting needles (DPNs) — for tight circumference areas where circular needles may not reach comfortably

Additional tools include a yarn needle for finishing and seaming, 10 stitch markers to track pattern sections and shaping, and approximately 2 yards of waste yarn in a contrasting color, which is typically used for holding live stitches during construction.

Gauge

The required gauge is 14 stitches and 17.5 rows over 4 inches (10 cm), measured in Stockinette Stitch after blocking. Achieving accurate gauge is important for ensuring the finished cardigan matches the intended measurements, particularly across the bust and length. Knitters are encouraged to swatch and block before beginning.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The Saturday Cardigan is built primarily around foundational knitting stitches and techniques that are well within reach of a beginner knitter:

• Stockinette Stitch (st st) — the primary fabric stitch, created by alternating knit rows and purl rows flat, or knitting every round in the round. It produces a smooth, classic fabric face with a natural curl at the edges, which is why it is typically paired with a border stitch.
• Knit (K) — the most fundamental knitting stitch, forming the smooth "V" loops on the right side of Stockinette fabric.
• Purl (P) — the companion st