Prism Cardigan

Prism Cardigan by ViTalina Craft

Garment Overview

The Prism Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by ViTalina Craft as a downloadable PDF pattern. This piece is constructed using DK weight yarn and offers five size options ranging from XS to XL, with finished chest measurements from 31½ inches (80 cm) to 47¼ inches (120 cm) and length to shoulder varying from 26¾ inches (68 cm) to 30 inches (76 cm).

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The Prism Cardigan employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques to create its structure. The primary fabric is worked in stockinette stitch, which creates the smooth, classic knit appearance characteristic of tailored cardigans. The pattern incorporates cable work, specifically featuring a back cable panel measuring 14 cm (5½ inches) in width, which adds textural interest and visual dimension to the garment.

Construction utilizes stitch markers to help track pattern repeats and shaping sections throughout the knitting process. The pattern includes decreasing techniques, specifically k2tog (knit two stitches together), which are essential for creating fitted shaping at armholes, necklines, and other tailored areas of the cardigan.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (K) – the foundation stitch creating the primary fabric texture
• Purl stitch (P) – used in combination with knit stitches for pattern definition and texture variation
• Knit two together (k2tog) – a single decrease stitch used for shaping
• Cable stitches – worked with a cable needle to create the distinctive back panel

Materials and Tools Required

The Prism Cardigan is knitted with DK weight yarn (also known as 8-ply), which is a versatile mid-weight yarn suitable for creating garments with good drape and structure. The pattern requires 10 to 14 skeins of 50g yarn, depending on size selection, with each skein providing 142 yards (130 meters) of yardwork. The total yardage needed ranges from approximately 1,420 yards for smaller sizes to 1,988 yards for the largest size.

ViTalina Craft recommends several high-quality DK weight yarn options for this project: Katia Concept Cotton Yak in shade 109 Salmon, Cascade Yarns® 220 Superwash, Sublime Yarns Extra Fine Merino Wool DK, Patons UK Diploma Gold DK, Rowan Baby Merino Silk DK, and Sirdar Snuggly Cashmere Merino DK. These recommendations offer various fiber content options, allowing knitters to choose based on desired drape, warmth, and care requirements.

Essential tools include US 4 (3.5 mm) knitting needles for working the main fabric at the specified gauge, a cable needle for manipulating stitches in the cable panel, stitch markers for tracking pattern sections, and a tapestry needle for seaming pieces together and weaving in yarn ends upon completion.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 23 stitches over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch using US 4 (3.5 mm) needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished measurements and ensuring proper fit across all five size options.