Simple Draped Cardigan

Simple Draped Cardigan by Sian Brown

What is Being Made

The Simple Draped Cardigan is a knitted cardigan designed by Sian Brown as a beginner-friendly project. This garment features a classic draped silhouette and is constructed in one piece from the bottom of the right side, creating a seamless and elegant design. The cardigan is sized to fit bust measurements ranging from 82 cm to 117 cm (32 to 46 inches), with finished bust measurements between 81 cm and 117 cm (32 to 46 inches). The length to back neck varies from 63 cm to 70 cm (24¾ to 27½ inches) depending on size, and sleeve length ranges from 44 cm to 46 cm (17¼ to 18 inches).

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginners. The cardigan is worked in one continuous piece using circular knitting needles, which allows for seamless construction and reduces finishing work. The pattern begins with a cast-on edge and uses garter stitch ribbing at the lower edge for structure and elasticity. The main body is worked in stockinette stitch, a foundational knitting technique that creates a smooth, classic fabric. The design incorporates edge stitches worked in garter stitch (knit on both right-side and wrong-side rows) to create finished selvage edges along the front openings, adding both structural integrity and a polished appearance.

Stitches Used

• Knit (k): The fundamental stitch that forms the basis of the stockinette stitch fabric
• Purl (p): Used in combination with knit stitches to create the stockinette stitch pattern
• Garter stitch: Created by knitting every row, used for the ribbed edge and selvage edges
• Stockinette stitch (st st): The primary stitch pattern formed by alternating knit and purl rows, creating the smooth, classic fabric of the cardigan body
• Make 1 (m1): An increase stitch used to shape the garment

Materials and Needles

The Simple Draped Cardigan is knitted using Stylecraft Pure Luxury Merino DK yarn in the shade Kingfisher 3644. DK (double knitting) weight yarn is a medium-weight yarn that works well for creating garments with good drape and structure. The yardage required ranges from 13 to 20 balls of 50g each, depending on the size being knitted, providing flexibility for different body measurements.

The pattern calls for two sizes of knitting needles: 3.75mm (US 5) needles and 4mm (US 6) needles. Both sizes are needed in pairs for flat knitting and as circular needles for working the garment in the round. The smaller 3.75mm needles are used for the initial ribbed edge, which creates elasticity and helps the fabric hold its shape. The larger 4mm needles are used for the main body of the cardigan once the ribbed edge is complete.

Tension and Gauge

The pattern specifies a tension of 20 stitches and 30 rows to a 10cm (4 inch) square when working stockinette stitch on 4mm needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for the finished garment to match the intended measurements. Knitters should work a gauge swatch before beginning the project to ensure their tension matches the pattern requirements.