Garter Check Cardigan #187

Garter Check Cardigan #187 by Sue McCain

What is Being Made

The Garter Check Cardigan #187 is a button-front cardigan sweater designed by Sue McCain and published by Vermont Fiber Designs. This pattern includes a comprehensive range of sizes from XXS through 6X, making it accessible for a wide variety of body types and fit preferences. The finished bust measurements span from 27.25 inches at the smallest size to 67.25 inches at the largest size, ensuring options for petite to plus-size knitters. The cardigan features a classic construction with a check pattern created using garter stitch techniques.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques. The primary stitch pattern utilizes garter stitch, which creates a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges. The pattern incorporates increases and decreases to shape the garment, using M1L (make one left) and M1R (make one right) techniques for invisible increases, as well as k2tog (knit two together) for decreases. These shaping methods are essential for creating the fitted silhouette of the cardigan while maintaining pattern continuity. The check pattern is achieved through the strategic use of garter stitch variations, creating visual interest across the front and body of the sweater.

Stitches Used

• Knit (k): The fundamental knit stitch forms the basis of the garter stitch pattern
• Purl (p): Used in combination with knit stitches to create the check pattern effect
• Knit two together (k2tog): A right-leaning decrease used for shaping the armholes, neckline, and other fitted areas
• Make one left (M1L): An invisible left-leaning increase worked between stitches to add width while maintaining pattern flow
• Make one right (M1R): An invisible right-leaning increase worked between stitches for balanced shaping
• Bind off (BO): Used to secure stitches and finish edges
• Cast on (CO): The foundation method for beginning the knitting project

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Garter Check Cardigan #187 is designed to be worked in DK weight or light worsted weight yarn. The pattern calls for a yarn blend, as demonstrated in the model garment knit with Universal Yarn Classic Shades Sequins Lite, which is composed of 74% acrylic, 22% wool, and 4% payette. This blend provides durability, warmth, and a subtle sheen to the finished cardigan.

Yardage requirements vary by size: XXS requires 1095 yards, progressing through Small at 1250 yards, Medium at 1370 yards, Large at 1495 yards, 1X at 1615 yards, 2X at 1685 yards, 3X at 1790 yards, 4X at 1870 yards, 5X at 1960 yards, and 6X at 2035 yards. The pattern specifies a gauge of 5.25 to 6 stitches per inch in stockinette stitch, with the yarn measuring 11 wraps per inch (WPI). Standard knitting needles appropriate for DK weight yarn are required, though specific needle size recommendations should be verified against the pattern's gauge requirements to ensure proper fit and drape of the finished cardigan.

Pattern Details

This downloadable PDF pattern from Vermont Fiber Designs is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to work with shaping, pattern repeats, and garment construction. The inclusion of plus sizes up to 6X demonstrates the designer's commitment to inclusive sizing, allowing knitters of all body types to enjoy this classic cardigan design.