Tric

Tric Top-Down A-Line Cardigan by Åsa Tricosa

What Is Being Made

Tric is a seamless, top-down A-line cardigan knitted in one continuous piece from the centre back collar down to the hem. The design features strong, simple lines with a flattering A-line silhouette that gradually widens from the shoulders to the hem. The cardigan includes an integrated collar, front bands, and set-in sleeves, all completed without any seaming required.

Design Features and Construction

This cardigan is constructed using a top-down method, beginning at the centre back collar and working downward in a single piece. The back features a textured ribbed triangle that flares from a single rib, creating visual interest and structure. The sleeves are faintly bell-shaped and set-in at the top, with the same ribbed texture echoed from the back design. The A-line shaping develops gradually throughout the body, creating a sophisticated silhouette that flatters various body types.

Available Sizes

Tric is available in ten sizes ranging from 81 cm to 127 cm (32 inches to 50 inches) in finished bust circumference, accommodating a wide range of fit preferences.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches Used

• Top-down construction: The entire cardigan is knitted from the top down in one piece, eliminating the need for seaming and allowing for easy adjustments during knitting
• Ribbed texturing: Ribbed stitches create the textured triangle on the back and are echoed on the bell-shaped sleeves, adding visual depth and structure
• Single rib: The foundation rib that flares into the textured triangle on the back
• Seamless knitting: Circular needles are used throughout to create a seamless garment with no finishing seams required
• Set-in sleeves: The sleeves are shaped and set into the body using top-down techniques
• Integrated bands: The collar and front bands are worked as part of the main construction rather than picked up and knitted separately

Yarn Requirements and Specifications

The pattern calls for DK weight yarn (also known as 8ply), with yardage requirements ranging from 1,030 to 1,442 meters (1,125 to 1,575 yards) depending on size. The primary yarn recommendation is Madelinetosh Merino DK, a 100% merino wool yarn with 206 meters per 100 grams, requiring 5 to 7 skeins depending on size. The pattern also provides alternative yarn suggestions, including Fyberspates Scrumptious DK High Twist, a merino and silk blend with 211 meters per 100 grams, and Fyberspates Vivacious DK, a superwash merino option with 230 meters per 100 grams.

Needles and Notions

• 4 mm (US 6) circular needle: 80 to 100 cm (32 to 40 inches) for main knitting
• 3 mm (US 2½) circular needle: 60 to 100 cm (24 to 40 inches) for ribbed sections and finishing
• Stitch holder: For holding stitches during construction
• Crochet hook (4 to 5 mm / G to H): Optional, likely for finishing details or securing edges

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, suitable for knitters with experience in circular needle techniques, shaping, and seamless garment construction. Familiarity with top-down cardigan construction and reading shaping instructions is recommended.

Yarn Weight and Fiber Content

The DK weight (8ply) yarn creates a fabric with excellent drape and structure, ideal for the A-line silhouette. The merino-based yarns recommended provide warmth, breathability, and a refined appearance. The optional merino-silk blend offers added luster and drape, while the superwash options provide easy care for everyday wear.