Bartizan Cardigan in Berroco Merino 401 - Downloadable PDF

Bartizan Cardigan in Berroco Merino 401

What is Being Made

The Bartizan Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Åsa Buchta. This garment is available in twelve sizes ranging from 34 inches to 71 inches bust measurement (86.5 cm to 180.5 cm), with finished lengths between 22½ and 25 inches (57 cm to 63.5 cm). The cardigan is shown in the 44-inch (112 cm) size and features overlapped front closures, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various body types and fit preferences.

Techniques Used

This knitting project employs several fundamental and intermediate techniques. The cardigan is constructed using circular needles to work flat and in the round, depending on the section being created. The pattern utilizes stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points throughout construction. Waste yarn is used to hold stitches temporarily, allowing for later pickup and finishing of edges or sections. The design incorporates positive ease of approximately 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm), which means the finished garment is intentionally larger than body measurements to provide comfortable wearing room and design intent.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure is stockinette stitch (St st), which creates the smooth, classic V-pattern fabric that forms the foundation of this cardigan. Stockinette stitch is achieved by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side when working flat, or by knitting every round when working in the round. This fundamental stitch is worked at a gauge of 19 stitches and 24 rows per 4 inches (10 cm) on the larger needles, establishing the fabric density and drape of the finished garment.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Bartizan Cardigan is designed to be knitted with Berroco Merino 401, a worsted-weight yarn. The yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 12 balls to 24 balls of the 50-gram weight, with the color shown being #11205 Sandcastle. This yarn choice provides a soft, breathable fiber suitable for a versatile cardigan that can be worn across multiple seasons.

The needle requirements include multiple sizes to accommodate different sections of the pattern. 32-inch (80 cm) circular needles in sizes 6 (4 mm) and 8 (5 mm) are used for the main body sections, with the larger size 8 needles used to achieve the working gauge. A 16-inch (40 cm) circular needle in size 8 (5 mm) is required for smaller circumference sections. Additionally, double-pointed needles or preferred small-circumference needles in sizes 6 (4 mm) and 8 (5 mm) are needed for finishing details such as cuffs, necklines, or other ribbed edges. A tapestry needle is essential for weaving in yarn ends and seaming sections if required.

Pattern Overview

This downloadable PDF pattern provides complete instructions for creating a classic cardigan with intermediate-level construction techniques. The multiple size options and detailed finished measurements allow knitters to select the appropriate size based on desired fit and personal preference. The combination of stockinette stitch simplicity with circular needle construction makes this an accessible yet satisfying project for knitters with some experience.