Sucre Cardigan in Rowan Brushed Fleece - Downloadable PDF

Sucre Cardigan in Rowan Brushed Fleece

What is Being Made

The Sucre Cardigan is a knitted cardigan designed by Sarah Hatton for Rowan. This garment is a classic wardrobe piece available in five sizes ranging from small (to fit bust 81-86 cm / 32-34 in) through to extra-extra-large (to fit bust 122-127 cm / 48-50 in). The cardigan features a structured construction with distinct front and back panels, making it suitable for knitters of all skill levels.

Techniques Used

The Sucre Cardigan employs several fundamental knitting techniques that create both visual interest and structural integrity. The garment begins with a ribbed edging combined with slip stitch detailing, which creates a neat, finished appearance along the front edges. The slip stitch edging technique—created by slipping stitches with yarn positioned either in front or behind the work—produces a professional selvage that is ideal for seaming or button bands. The pattern incorporates shaping through strategic decreasing, allowing the cardigan to achieve a flattering fit. Knitters will work the main body in stockinette stitch, which is alternated with the ribbed sections to create textural variation and structure.

Stitches Used

• Ribbing (K1, P1): Creates the elastic, textured foundation and edging sections that provide shape retention and a classic finish
• Stockinette Stitch (St st): Forms the primary fabric of the cardigan body, creating a smooth, classic knit surface
• Slip Stitch Edging: Worked throughout the front edges using yarn forward and yarn back techniques to create a refined selvage
• Decreasing: Used strategically to shape the garment and achieve proper fit across different sizes

Materials

The Sucre Cardigan is designed to be knitted using Rowan Brushed Fleece yarn, a chunky-weight yarn that provides warmth and texture. The pattern requires 5 to 8 balls of 50-gram yarn depending on the size being knitted, with the photographed sample shown in the colorway Cairn 263. Two pairs of needles are required: 6.5mm (US 10½) needles for the ribbed sections and edging, and 8mm (US 11) needles for the main body in stockinette stitch. The needle size progression allows for proper gauge and fabric consistency throughout the garment.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for knitters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to tackle a complete garment project. The straightforward stitch combinations, clear sizing options, and logical construction method provide an accessible introduction to cardigan knitting without overwhelming complexity.