Wainwright

Wainwright Asymmetric Cardigan by Bristol Ivy

What is Being Made

The Wainwright is an asymmetric cardigan designed by Bristol Ivy, featuring a contemporary construction approach that reimagines traditional chevron patterns in an unconventional way. This intermediate-level knitting project produces a finished garment with bust measurements ranging from 32 1/4 inches to 53 inches, offering seven size options to accommodate different body measurements. The sample shown measures 39 inches at the bust with 2 inches of positive ease built into the design.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The Wainwright cardigan employs a thoughtful construction method that combines both flat and circular knitting techniques. The garment is primarily worked flat using a circular needle, which provides the necessary width and flexibility for managing the asymmetric shaping and chevron pattern work. The pattern incorporates both traditional and modern knitting approaches, allowing intermediate knitters to develop their skills while creating a sophisticated finished piece. The asymmetric design element adds visual interest and contemporary styling to the classic cardigan silhouette.

Stitches Used

The Wainwright pattern utilizes several fundamental knitting stitches to create its distinctive appearance:

• Garter Stitch — worked both flat and in the round, this reversible stitch creates a textured, bumpy fabric that appears identical on both sides
• Stockinette Stitch — worked flat with alternating knit and purl rows, creating the smooth, classic knit fabric appearance
• Chevron patterns — traditional stitch sequences that create the distinctive zigzag or V-shaped motifs central to the cardigan's design

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Wainwright is designed to be worked in aran weight yarn, a medium-heavy yarn that provides excellent stitch definition and drape for cardigan construction. The pattern sample was created using Masham Worsted by Lorna's Laces, a yarn composed of 70% British Wool and 30% Masham Wool, offering durability and natural fiber warmth. Yardage requirements range from 1125 yards for the smallest size to 1875 yards for the largest size, depending on the chosen finished bust measurement. The pattern specifies 7 to 12 skeins of yarn (each 100 grams with 170 yards), allowing crafters to select yarn quantities based on their size.

Needles and Tools

The Wainwright pattern requires the following needle sizes and types:

• One 32-inch or 40-inch circular needle in size US 8 [5 mm] — used for the main flat knitting of the cardigan body and asymmetric sections
• Set of double-pointed needles (DPNs) in size US 8 [5 mm] — employed for working smaller circumferences, such as cuffs and neckline shaping
• Set of double-pointed needles (DPNs) in size US 7 [4.5 mm] — used for ribbing or stitch definition where a slightly tighter gauge is desired

Needle selection should be adjusted to obtain the correct gauge as specified in the pattern, ensuring the finished cardigan achieves the intended measurements and fabric characteristics.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to explore more complex construction methods and asymmetric shaping. The combination of garter stitch, stockinette stitch, and chevron pattern work provides an engaging project that develops technical skills while producing a wearable, professional-quality garment.