Simple Woven Cardigan

Simple Woven Cardigan by Loose Loop Patterns

Project Overview

The Simple Woven Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitting pattern designed by Loose Loop Patterns, created by Raimonda Bagdoniene. This downloadable PDF pattern offers knitters a straightforward approach to constructing a wearable cardigan using fundamental knitting techniques combined with a classic textural stitch. The design emphasizes accessibility and wearability, producing a light, soft garment suitable for year-round wear across multiple seasons.

Construction Method

This cardigan is knitted from the bottom up, eliminating complex shaping requirements that can intimidate intermediate knitters. The straightforward construction approach makes it an ideal project for those seeking to build confidence with cardigan patterns without navigating intricate decreases or increases throughout the body.

Stitch Pattern and Techniques

The Simple Woven Cardigan features a Basket Weave pattern as its primary textural element. This pattern creates visual interest through the interplay of knit and purl stitches, producing a dimensional fabric that resembles woven textile.

The pattern incorporates the following essential stitches and techniques:

• K (knit stitch) – the fundamental forward stitch
• P (purl stitch) – the reverse stitch creating texture
• Kfb (knit front and back) – an increase method
• K2tog (knit two together) – a right-leaning decrease
• Ssk (slip, slip, knit) – a left-leaning decrease
• Yo (yarn over) – creates decorative eyelet holes and increases
• Sl (slip stitch) – moves stitches without working them
• Sl1wyib (slip one with yarn in back) – slips a stitch while maintaining yarn position

Materials and Specifications

The Simple Woven Cardigan requires chunky weight yarn, with the original pattern calling for Lana Grossa Benessere in a brown shade. Yardage requirements vary by size: XS/S requires 2000 meters (2192 yards) across 16 balls of 50g; the medium size needs 2250 meters (2466 yards) across 18 balls; and the largest size requires 2750 meters (3014 yards) across 22 balls. The designer notes that yarn substitution is possible provided knitters verify tension gauge and total yardage compatibility with their chosen yarn.

The pattern specifies two circular needles in 6.00 mm size (US 10): one 50 cm needle for working smaller sections and one 100 cm needle for larger body sections. Additional materials include a tapestry needle for finishing and weaving in ends, and a stitch marker for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points.

Skill Level and Accessibility

Rated at intermediate difficulty, this pattern suits knitters with foundational skills who are comfortable reading pattern instructions and executing basic increases and decreases. The absence of complex shaping makes it an excellent stepping stone for intermediate knitters seeking to expand their cardigan-knitting experience without overwhelming complexity.