Glacial

Glacial Cardigan by Ruth Garcia-Alcantud

What is Being Made

Glacial is a downloadable knitting pattern for a cardigan designed by Ruth Garcia-Alcantud. This intermediate-level project creates a fitted cardigan available in 17 different sizes, ranging from 32 1/8 inches to 64 1/4 inches bust measurement (81.60 cm to 162.90 cm). The garment is shown on a size 36 3/8 inch (92.40 cm) with 2 to 2 1/2 inches (5 to 6.50 cm) of positive ease, making it a versatile piece suitable for various body types and fit preferences.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

Glacial is constructed using knitting in the round, a fundamental technique that creates seamless fabric by working circularly rather than in flat rows. This method is used for both the body and sleeves, resulting in a polished, professional finish with minimal seaming required. The pattern assumes prior knowledge of knitting in the round, so experienced knitters will find the instructions streamlined and efficient. For the sleeves, knitters have the flexibility to use either circular needles or double-pointed needles (dpns), depending on personal preference and comfort level.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The pattern works at a gauge of 21 stitches across the specified stitch pattern, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements. While the PDF content provided does not detail the specific stitch patterns used throughout the cardigan, the intermediate difficulty rating suggests a combination of stockinette stitch and potentially textured or decorative stitch elements that create visual interest without requiring advanced techniques.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Glacial is designed to be worked in DK weight yarn, specifically Colourmart Extra Fine Merino in the shade "blue." This yarn is composed of 100% extra fine merino, offering softness, breathability, and excellent drape—ideal qualities for a cardigan. Each cone contains 460 yards (420 meters) per 150 grams. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 3 cones for smaller sizes up to 6 cones for the largest sizes, with specific yardage suggestions provided in the pattern notes.

Needles and Notions

Construction requires US 6 / 4mm circular needles for the body and sleeves. Additional notions include markers for tracking stitch positions, stitch holders for managing stitches temporarily, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and seaming, scissors, and seven buttons measuring 1.5 inches (3.50 cm) for the cardigan front closure. These notions are standard for most cardigan projects and are readily available from yarn and craft suppliers.

Ideal for Intermediate Knitters

With an intermediate difficulty level, Glacial suits knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to tackle projects involving seamless construction and shaping. The extensive size range makes this pattern accessible to a wide audience, while the use of premium merino yarn elevates the finished garment into a sophisticated, wearable piece suitable for everyday wear or special occasions.