449 Bridge Cardigan - Knitting Pattern for Women in Valley Yarns Berkshire

449 Bridge Cardigan - Women's Knitting Pattern

What is Being Made

The 449 Bridge Cardigan is a women's cardigan designed by Kirsten Hipsky. This seamed cardigan is worked flat in pieces, offering a classic construction method that allows for precise shaping and finishing. The pattern includes multiple size options to accommodate different measurements.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level cardigan employs seamed construction, meaning individual pieces are knitted separately and then sewn together. The cardigan is worked flat rather than in the round, which simplifies stitch management and allows for easier incorporation of ribbed edges and structured shaping.

Key shaping techniques include strategic increases worked at the beginning and end of rows to create sleeve cap shaping. The pattern utilizes slip stitch decreases (ssk: slip, slip, knit) and knit two together (k2tog) reductions for refined edge finishing. Yarn overs (yo) add decorative or functional detail, while slip stitches with yarn positioning (wyib and wyif) create clean selvage edges for seamless joining.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch (St st) - the primary stitch forming the main fabric body
• Knit and purl ribbing (k1, p1) - used for structured edges and cuffs
• Knit 2 together (k2tog) - right-leaning decrease
• Slip, slip, knit (ssk) - left-leaning decrease for balanced shaping
• Yarn overs (yo) - for texture or eyelet details
• Slip stitches - for selvage edge management

Materials and Specifications

This pattern is designed for Valley Yarns Berkshire, a worsted-weight yarn. The gauge is 16 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch, which is typical for worsted-weight yarn worked on appropriate needles. Worsted weight provides excellent stitch definition for the ribbed and stockinette elements of this cardigan.

The pattern accommodates six different sizes, with sleeve lengths ranging from 18 to 21 inches, allowing for customization based on individual measurements and desired finished length.

Pattern Overview

Construction begins with the right half sleeve, which is cast on and increased gradually to create proper sleeve cap shaping. The body is then cast on at the end of successive rows, integrating the sleeve with the main cardigan body. The first and last 6 stitches of each row are worked in knit-purl ribbing to create a defined front band, while the remaining stitches continue in stockinette stitch for the main fabric. This combination of ribbing and stockinette creates both structural support and visual interest in the finished garment.