Brettwood Cardigan

Brettwood Cardigan by Valerie Hobbs

What is Being Made

The Brettwood Cardigan is a women's knitted cardigan designed by Valerie Hobbs, available in sizes ranging from 36" to 52" bust. This intermediate-level knitting project features a loose, comfortable fit intended to be worn with 2-4 inches of ease, making it an ideal layering piece. The cardigan measures approximately 24¾ to 26½ inches in length depending on size, offering a classic silhouette that works for various body types and styling preferences.

Design Features and Construction

The Brettwood Cardigan combines multiple design elements to create visual interest and texture. The garment features a geometric stitch pattern concentrated on the yoke and sleeves, which provides a striking contrast against the smooth stockinette stitch body. The body itself is worked in an A-line shaping, creating a flattering silhouette that gradually widens toward the hem. The cardigan is finished with garter stitch trim on the wide collar band and hems, contributing a cozy, textured border that frames the neckline and edges.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Stockinette Stitch - Forms the primary fabric of the A-line body, creating a smooth, classic knitted surface
• Geometric Stitch Pattern - Applied to the yoke and sleeves for textural contrast and visual detail
• Garter Stitch - Used for the collar band and hem trims to add a cozy, textured finish
• I-Cord Seaming - Clever seaming technique that adds structural definition and decorative detail to the cardigan construction
• Shaping and Increases/Decreases - Used to create the A-line body silhouette and proper sleeve cap fit

Stitches and Stitch Work

The primary stitches used in the Brettwood Cardigan include stockinette stitch for the main body, garter stitch for edging, and a geometric stitch pattern for the yoke and sleeves. The I-cord seaming technique, while technically a finishing method, is highlighted as a design feature that adds both structural integrity and visual interest to the seams. This combination of stitch types creates a balanced design where textured areas draw the eye while the smooth stockinette body provides visual rest.

Yarn and Materials

The Brettwood Cardigan is designed for worsted weight yarn, with yardage requirements ranging from 1110 yards for the smallest size (36") to 1630 yards for the largest size (52"). The pattern specifies worsted weight wool or wool blend, allowing knitters flexibility in fiber content while maintaining the intended fabric characteristics. Knitters will need appropriately sized needles for worsted weight yarn to achieve the correct gauge and fabric drape for this intermediate project.

Sizing and Fit

Available in nine sizes from 36" to 52" bust measurement, the Brettwood Cardigan accommodates a wide range of body types. The pattern is designed with 2-4 inches of positive ease, meaning the finished garment will be larger than the wearer's actual bust measurement for a comfortable, loose fit. This ease allowance contributes to the cardigan's practicality as a quick-to-slip-on layering piece, and the wide, above-the-wrist sleeves enhance this ease of wear.