Winona

Winona Cardigan by Laura Chau

What is Being Made

Winona is a top-down knitted cardigan designed by Laura Chau, available in eight sizes ranging from 30 ¼ inches to 51 ½ inches bust circumference. This garment features a distinctive flared lower body and is intended to be worn with 0–2 inches of negative ease for a fitted silhouette. The cardigan has a finished length between 26 ¾ and 28 ¾ inches, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various body types and preferences.

Construction Technique

Winona is worked in one piece from the top down, a construction method that allows for seamless shaping and the ability to try on the garment as you progress. This technique begins at the neckline and works downward toward the hem, eliminating the need for seaming and providing a smooth, continuous fabric. The top-down approach also offers flexibility in adjusting the final length before binding off.

The lower body features a flared silhouette created through strategic increases. Slipped stitches are used to highlight the increase lines and side "seams," creating visual definition and structure. Stitch markers play an essential role in tracking shaping lines on the body and marking the side "seams." The pattern recommends using different colored stitch markers to distinguish between the side seams and the shaping lines, making it easier to follow the construction.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The pattern employs slipped stitches as a key design element. All slipped stitches in Winona are worked purlwise with the yarn held in back, a technique that creates neat, decorative edges and helps define the garment's structural lines. The yoke features neck shaping worked at regular intervals—every 6th row for some sizes and every 4th row for others—creating a well-fitted neckline. The pattern includes multiple shaping rows distributed across the yoke and body sections to achieve the intended fit and flare.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Winona is designed to be knitted with DK or sport weight yarn, both of which are lightweight yarns suitable for creating garments with good drape and definition. These yarn weights are ideal for showcasing stitch detail, particularly the slipped stitch work that highlights the cardigan's structural lines. A circular needle is required for the top-down construction method, allowing you to work in the round for the yoke and body sections.

Difficulty Level

This cardigan is rated as a beginner-friendly project, making it accessible to knitters who are new to garment construction. While the pattern involves shaping and the use of stitch markers, the straightforward top-down method and clear structural elements make it an excellent introduction to fitted cardigan knitting. Beginners will gain valuable experience with increases, stitch marker placement, and garment assembly without encountering advanced techniques.