Suz

Suz Cardigan by Kat Riddell

What is Being Made

Suz is a relaxed-fit cardigan designed by Kat Riddell, available in 12 sizes ranging from 30 inches to 78 inches at the bust. This pattern is intended to be worn with 0 to 4 inches of positive ease, making it suitable for a range of body types and styling preferences. The cardigan is described as ideal for casual, comfortable wear and is specifically designed as a television knitting project.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

Suz is worked entirely in one piece, flat on the needles, using a sideways construction method. Rather than the traditional approach of knitting the body and sleeves separately, this cardigan is constructed by casting on at one wrist and working horizontally across the body before binding off at the opposite wrist. This sideways construction technique creates a unique fabric flow and is particularly suited to garter stitch patterns, as it allows for seamless integration of the sleeves and body in a single continuous piece.

Stitches Used

The entire cardigan is worked in garter stitch, which is created by knitting every row on both the right side and wrong side. Garter stitch produces a reversible, textured fabric with horizontal ridges and is one of the most fundamental knitting stitches. This stitch choice makes Suz an excellent project for beginner knitters, as it requires only basic knitting knowledge and minimal pattern reading. The simplicity of garter stitch also contributes to the project's suitability as television knitting, allowing crafters to work without constant attention to complex stitch patterns.

Yarn and Materials

Suz requires fingering-weight yarn, also known as 4-ply yarn. The yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 1455 yards for the smallest size (30 inches) to 3800 yards for the largest size (78 inches). The pattern suggests T&H Fiber Works Heather's Favorite Sock in the colorway "Stormy Daniels" as an ideal yarn choice, though any fingering-weight yarn with similar yardage and characteristics will work for this project.

Knitting needles required are US 5 (3.75mm), which are appropriate for working with fingering-weight yarn. The gauge for this project is 24 stitches and 44 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) when worked in garter stitch. Additional notions needed are minimal—only a yarn needle for weaving in ends upon completion.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as beginner-friendly, making it an accessible project for knitters new to cardigan construction. The straightforward garter stitch throughout, combined with the simple flat, one-piece construction, eliminates the complexity often found in garment knitting. The sideways construction method, while different from traditional approaches, is easy to follow once the initial cast-on is complete.