Sawteeth

Sawteeth Cardigan by Holli Yeoh

What Is Being Made

Sawteeth is a knitted cardigan designed by Holli Yeoh, available in nine sizes ranging from 33 ½" to 62 ½" bust measurement (85 to 159 cm). The cardigan is intended to fit with 2 ½" (6.5 cm) of positive ease and features a finished length between 22" and 25" (56 to 63.5 cm) depending on size. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a structured, wearable garment suitable for various body sizes.

Construction and Techniques

Sawteeth is worked in separate pieces from the bottom up, a traditional flat knitting approach that allows for precise shaping and fit adjustments. The cardigan begins with a hem facing at the lower edge, establishing a professional finished look. After all pieces are completed, they are sewn together and then blocked to set the final dimensions and stitch definition.

A key design feature is the asymmetrical armhole depth: the front armholes are worked to a longer depth than the back, creating a distinctive silhouette and improved fit through the shoulders and upper body. This thoughtful shaping is characteristic of intermediate-level garment design.

Gauge accuracy is critical to this pattern's success. Knitters are advised to work a large swatch and measure both pre-blocking and post-blocking gauge, as the Zigzag pattern's appearance and drape change significantly after washing and blocking. Row counts are specified throughout the pattern, but achieving the correct finished length depends entirely on matching the pattern's row gauge before blocking.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern is called Zigzag, a textured stitch that forms the visual character of the cardigan. This pattern requires careful attention to row gauge, as the vertical repeat of the Zigzag directly affects the overall length of the finished pieces. The pattern instructions specify exact row counts within the Zigzag sections to guide construction.

Materials

Sawteeth is designed for DK weight yarn, a medium-light yarn suitable for creating fabric with good stitch definition and drape. The pattern is worked on needles appropriate for DK yarn, allowing the Zigzag stitch pattern to display clearly. The downloadable PDF format provides complete instructions for all nine sizes.