Nightingale Cardigan in Berroco Ultra Wool - Portfolio4 - Downloadable PDF

Nightingale Cardigan in Berroco Ultra Wool

Garment Overview

The Nightingale Cardigan is a women's cardigan designed by Noriko Ho, featured in Portfolio Vol. 4. This intermediate-level knitting project is constructed using a top-down, worked-flat technique, making it an excellent choice for knitters seeking a structured approach to cardigan construction. The finished garment offers versatile sizing with six size options, ranging from 29" to 49" bust measurements, with finished lengths between 23½" and 27½" depending on the selected size.

Design and Fit

The Nightingale Cardigan was intentionally designed with variable ease to accommodate different styling preferences. The garment features approximately 2" of negative ease to 2" of positive ease, allowing knitters to select a size that provides either a fitted silhouette or a more relaxed, comfortable fit. The shown size features 33" finished bust measurements, providing a reference point for fit assessment before beginning the project.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This cardigan employs a top-down construction method, which allows knitters to try on the garment as it progresses and easily adjust length before binding off. The worked-flat technique means the cardigan is knit on straight needles rather than in the round, simplifying shaping and buttonband construction. The combination of these techniques makes the Nightingale Cardigan accessible to intermediate-level knitters while maintaining design sophistication.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The cardigan features a Pattern Stitch worked on the larger needles, which establishes the garment's primary fabric texture and drape. The gauge for this stitch pattern is 20 stitches and 29 rows over 4 inches when worked on size 8 (5.00 mm) needles, making accurate gauge swatching essential before beginning the project.

Yarn and Materials

The Nightingale Cardigan is designed to be knit in Berroco Ultra Wool, a worsted-weight yarn (aran weight classification) that provides durability and elasticity. Yardage requirements range from 500 grams (5 balls) for the smallest size to 900 grams (9 balls) for the largest size. The sample shown was worked in colorway #33145 Sour Cherry, a rich, deep berry tone.

Needles and Notions

• Circular needles: 29" length in both size 6 (4.00 mm) and size 8 (5.00 mm), used for ribbing and main fabric respectively
• Double-pointed needles (dpns): One set of four needles in each size 6 (4.00 mm) and size 8 (5.00 mm), typically used for smaller circumference sections such as sleeves
• Tapestry needle: For weaving in ends and seaming if necessary
• Stitch markers: Two markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points
• Removable stitch marker: For marking gauge swatches or adjusting stitches during fitting
• Buttons: Six to seven ½" buttons depending on size, for front closure

Skill Level and Considerations

Rated as an intermediate project, the Nightingale Cardigan assumes knitter familiarity with fundamental techniques including cast-on methods, basic stitches, increases and decreases for shaping, and button band construction. The top-down, worked-flat approach reduces complexity compared to other cardigan construction methods, making it an ideal intermediate project for knitters ready to expand their garment-making skills.