2012 Longline Rib Cardigan

2012 Longline Rib Cardigan with Cable Detail

Design Overview

The 2012 Longline Rib Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitting project designed by Crucci NZ, featuring a vintage aesthetic with contemporary styling. This cardigan showcases a distinctive longline silhouette paired with decorative cable detailing positioned on the shoulder, cuff, and pocket areas. The design combines classic rib construction with textured cable elements to create visual interest and dimension throughout the garment.

What Is Being Made

This is a women's cardigan with a longline cut, designed to extend beyond the hip for a flattering, elongated look. The cardigan features a front button closure, set-in sleeves, ribbed body construction, and practical pockets. Cable detail accents are incorporated strategically across the shoulders, cuffs, and pocket areas to add texture and visual appeal to the piece.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Rib Knitting: The primary construction technique uses rib stitch throughout the body, creating a stretchy, fitted fabric that hugs the body while maintaining shape and recovery.
• Cable Knitting: Decorative cable patterns are worked into specific areas—shoulders, cuffs, and pockets—adding dimensional texture and visual interest to the design.
• Set-in Sleeves: The cardigan features properly shaped armholes and set-in sleeves for a tailored, professional fit.
• Pocket Construction: Functional pockets are incorporated with cable detail accents for both practicality and design cohesion.

Stitches Used

• Rib Stitch (Primary): The foundation stitch for the cardigan body, creating vertical lines and elasticity throughout.
• Cable Stitch: Used decoratively on shoulders, cuffs, and pocket areas to create twisted, dimensional texture.
• Stockinette Stitch: Likely used in conjunction with rib sections for contrast and smooth fabric areas.

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: The pattern calls for either CRUCCI Merino 8ply or CRUCCI Pure Wool 8ply yarn. The 8ply weight classification places this in the DK (Double Knit) weight category, suitable for garments with good drape and definition. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 13 to 19 balls of 50g yarn depending on the finished bust measurement (75–115cm).

Needles: The pattern requires one pair each of 4.00mm (UK size 8) and 3.25mm (UK size 10) knitting needles. The larger needles are used for the main body and sleeves, while the smaller needles are typically employed for ribbed edges and cuffs to create a tighter, more defined finish.

Additional Materials: Two stitch holders are needed for holding stitches during construction, and a yarn needle is required for seaming and weaving in ends.

Sizing and Fit

The cardigan is available in five sizes: Small (to fit 75–80cm bust), Medium (85–90cm), Large (95–100cm), Extra Large (105–110cm), and Extra Extra Large (115–120cm). The actual finished bust measurements range from 90cm to 130cm, providing approximately 10–15cm of positive ease for comfortable wear. The longline length ranges from 68–72cm depending on size, while sleeve length remains consistent at 43cm across all sizes.

Tension and Construction Notes

The pattern specifies a tension of 24 stitches and 30 rows over 10cm when working in rib stitch (slightly stretched) using 4.00mm needles. Achieving correct tension is essential for proper fit, and knitters are advised to work a 15cm x 15cm tension square before beginning the cardigan. The pattern notes that yarn quantities are approximate, as they vary between individual knitters based on tension and technique.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, this project is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are comfortable working with cable stitches, shaping armholes, and seaming garment pieces. The combination of rib and cable work requires attention to stitch definition and pattern consistency, making it an ideal next-step project for advancing knitters.