Simnia Cardigan

Simnia Cardigan by Janet Harvey

What is Being Made

The Simnia Cardigan is a traditional yoke-style cardigan featuring a distinctive flared skirt. This seamless, top-down knit design combines classic construction techniques with decorative patterning inspired by sea shells. The cardigan is available in multiple sizes ranging from newborn (0-3 months) through 12 months, making it an ideal project for creating fitted garments for infants and young children. The design includes a full button band knitted as an integral part of the garment.

Construction Technique

The Simnia Cardigan employs a seamless, top-down construction method that begins at the neckband. The garment is initially worked flat in rows from the neckband through the yoke and to the sleeve separation point. Once the yoke shaping is complete, sleeve stitches are placed on hold while the skirt is finished to the desired length. The sleeve stitches are then returned to circular needles or double-pointed needles (DPNs) and worked seamlessly in the round down to the cuff. This construction approach eliminates the need for seaming and allows for easy customization of both sleeve and skirt lengths. Optional short rows are included in the pattern to add additional shaping to the back of the yoke for improved fit.

Stitches and Patterning

The Simnia Cardigan features decorative patterning on the flared skirt that evokes the organic shapes of sea shells. The shell stitch pattern repeats over six stitches and is designed to be easy to memorize, making it accessible for intermediate-level knitters. The repeating pattern creates visual interest while remaining manageable throughout the knitting process. The button bands are integrated into the main garment construction rather than added afterward, contributing to the seamless finish.

Yarn and Needle Requirements

This pattern is designed for DK and sport weight yarns, which provide appropriate drape and stitch definition for the delicate shell patterning. Yarn requirements vary by size: the 0-3 month size requires approximately 295 meters (320 yards), the 3-9 month size requires 410 meters (450 yards), and the 6-12 month size requires 455 meters (500 yards). The sample cardigan shown in the pattern was knitted in Lavanda by Colour Adventures. Circular needles and double-pointed needles (DPNs) are required for the seamless construction, with circular needles used for working the body flat initially and then for working the sleeves in the round.

Skill Level

The Simnia Cardigan is rated as an intermediate difficulty project. While the shell stitch pattern is designed to be easy to memorize, the seamless top-down construction, yoke shaping, and management of stitches on hold require intermediate knitting skills and familiarity with techniques such as working flat and in the round on the same project.