Clemence

Clemence Cardigan by Sarah Hatton

What is Being Made

Clemence is a knitted cardigan designed by Sarah Hatton, available in eight sizes ranging from 32 inches to 46 inches bust measurement. This intermediate-level knitting project produces a finished garment with an actual laid-flat bust measurement between 41½ and 60½ centimeters, depending on the chosen size. The cardigan features a length of approximately 51 to 57 centimeters and includes sleeve lengths of 28 to 31 centimeters, making it suitable for various body proportions and seasonal wear.

Techniques Used

The Clemence cardigan employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters. The construction begins with garter stitch, a basic reversible stitch created by knitting every row, which forms the foundation of the garment. The pattern then transitions to stockinette stitch, alternating knit and purl rows to create the classic smooth fabric characteristic of many cardigans. A key decorative technique used throughout the body is the T2R stitch, which appears to be a twisted stitch variation that creates textural interest and visual pattern definition. The pattern includes strategic increases and shaping to create the fitted silhouette and proper sleeve cap construction.

Stitches Used

• Garter stitch (g st): Worked for the initial 6 to 8 centimeters depending on size, creating a textured, reversible foundation
• Stockinette stitch: Alternating knit and purl rows forming the primary fabric after the garter stitch section
• T2R (Twisted stitch right): A decorative twisted stitch repeated throughout the pattern in specific sequences to create visual texture and design interest

Materials and Specifications

This project uses Rowan All Seasons Cotton yarn in the colorway Hedge 246. The yarn weight is aran, a medium-weight yarn suitable for creating structured garments with good drape and definition. The pattern requires 8 to 13 balls of 50-gram yarn depending on the finished size selected, with larger sizes requiring proportionally more yardage. The pattern calls for 4.5mm needles for the main fabric and 4mm needles for sections requiring tighter gauge, allowing crafters to adjust fabric density and create subtle shaping throughout the cardigan. The design includes 5 buttons for closure, making this a practical everyday cardigan suitable for layering.

Pattern Structure

The Clemence cardigan follows a systematic construction method with clearly defined sections. After establishing the garter stitch foundation, the pattern introduces an eight-row repeat that sets the primary stitch pattern, combining stockinette stitch with regularly spaced T2R twisted stitches. The pattern provides detailed row-by-row instructions with bracketed size variations, allowing knitters to customize the garment to their preferred measurements. The intermediate difficulty rating reflects the need to track pattern repeats, manage multiple size options, and execute the twisted stitch technique consistently throughout the project.