Bontle

Bontle Cardigan/Shrug by BiggerthanlifeKnits

What is Being Made

The Bontle is a versatile cardigan and shrug hybrid designed by Noma Ndlovu. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a quick-to-knit layering piece that works beautifully as either a structured cardigan or a relaxed shrug, making it a flexible addition to any wardrobe. The design is suitable for intermediate knitters seeking an engaging project with visual interest.

Construction Method and Techniques

The Bontle is constructed using a top-down knitting method, which allows knitters to try on the garment as they work and easily adjust the length to their preferences. The sleeves are worked from the top down as well, with short rows incorporated to shape the sleeve caps. This technique creates smooth, fitted armholes and professional-looking sleeve shaping without the need for complex seaming.

The pattern features simple yet exciting pattern stitches that provide visual engagement throughout the project while remaining accessible to intermediate-level knitters. These stitch patterns add textural interest and prevent the knitting from becoming monotonous during this relatively quick project.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The primary stitch used in the Bontle is stockinette stitch, which serves as the foundation for the garment and provides a smooth, classic fabric base. The pattern incorporates additional decorative stitches that add visual complexity and interest to the finished piece. The gauge for this project is 12 stitches and 14 rows in stockinette stitch over 4 inches (10cm), which is typical for super chunky yarn weights and contributes to the quick-knit nature of this design.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Bontle is designed to be worked in super chunky weight yarn, which significantly reduces knitting time and creates a warm, substantial fabric. The pattern calls for African Expressions Inspire yarn in 100% Superwash Merino, available in the Ecru colorway. Yardage requirements range from 4 to 8 skeins of 100g (approximately 87.5 meters or 95 yards per skein), depending on the size being knitted, with sizes accommodating a range of body measurements.

Knitters will need US 15 (10.0mm) circular needles measuring 32 inches (80cm) long to accommodate the top-down construction method. Additional materials include a yarn needle for weaving in ends, a cable needle for any cable work, stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points, and scrap yarn for holding stitches. The pattern also specifies a ribbon trim measuring 50 inches (127cm) total length—25 inches (63.5cm) for each side—and 1.5 inches (4cm) wide, which adds a decorative or functional finishing element to the cardigan edges.

Difficulty Level

Rated as an intermediate difficulty project, the Bontle is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle shaping techniques and pattern stitches. The top-down construction and short-row shaping require understanding of these intermediate techniques, while the straightforward stitch patterns remain engaging without being overly complex.