A Touch of Texture

A Touch of Texture Cardigan by Pat Menchini

What is Being Made

A Touch of Texture is a knitted cardigan design available in six sizes, ranging from 76-81 cm to 127-132 cm (30-32 inches to 50-52 inches). The cardigan features a center back length of 56-60 cm depending on size, with consistent sleeve length of 46 cm across all sizes. This intermediate-level knitting project is fastened with four buttons, making it a practical layering piece suitable for various occasions.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This cardigan employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters. The pattern utilizes two different needle sizes to create textural variation and proper garment structure. The design incorporates a neckband finish, which requires careful attention during the final stages of construction. Knitters will work with stocking stitch as the primary fabric, which creates a smooth, classic appearance that allows the yarn texture to shine through.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout the cardigan is stocking stitch (abbreviated as st-st), which forms the foundation of the garment. This fundamental knit stitch creates the characteristic V-pattern texture visible on the right side of the fabric. The stocking stitch base is worked at a specific tension to ensure proper fit and drape of the finished cardigan.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This pattern calls for Rico Essentials Mega Merino Chunky yarn in the shade Lilac 008. The yarn is a chunky weight option, providing excellent stitch definition and relatively quick project completion. Each 100g ball yields 125 metres or 137 yards of fiber. Depending on size, the cardigan requires between 6 and 9 balls of yarn, with exact yardage varying by finished garment dimensions.

Knitting needles required include one pair each of 5 mm (UK 6, US 8) and 6 mm (UK 4, US 10) needles. The pattern also calls for four buttons for fastening the front opening. The tension must be carefully matched before beginning: 14 stitches and 19 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over stocking stitch using the 6 mm needles. Adjusting needle size up or down can correct tension issues—use finer needles if tension is too loose, or larger needles if too tight.

Design Notes

The inclusion of two needle sizes suggests the pattern employs needle sizing changes for specific sections, likely using the smaller 5 mm needles for ribbed edges or the neckband to create a neat, fitted finish, while the larger 6 mm needles accommodate the main body in chunky yarn. The approximate yarn requirements mean knitters should verify yardage when substituting alternative yarns, ensuring the replacement yarn matches the stated tension for proper fit and appearance.