Denim Style Cardigan

Denim Style Cardigan by Sian Brown

What is Being Made

The Denim Style Cardigan is a classic button-front knitted cardigan designed by Sian Brown. This garment is crafted to fit bust measurements ranging from 82cm to 112cm (32 to 44 inches), with seven size options available. The finished cardigan features a length to shoulder of approximately 54 to 60cm (21¼ to 23½ inches) and sleeve lengths of 44 to 46cm (17¼ to 18 inches). The cardigan is fastened with 10 buttons and offers a timeless, versatile style suitable for everyday wear.

Techniques Used

This knitting pattern employs a clever shaping technique that uses needle size changes to create waist definition. The cardigan begins with smaller 3.25mm needles for the ribbed edging, then transitions to larger 4mm needles for the main body. This transition creates natural shaping at the waist without requiring complex decreases or increases, making it an elegant solution for achieving a fitted silhouette. The pattern is designed as a beginner-level project, making it accessible to knitters who are new to garment construction while still delivering professional results.

Stitches Used

The Denim Style Cardigan utilizes fundamental knitting stitches that form the foundation of garment making:

• Moss Stitch – Used for the ribbed edging and button bands, created by alternating knit and purl stitches (k1, p1) to form a textured, elastic border that frames the cardigan
• Stocking Stitch – The primary stitch used for the main body of the cardigan, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side to produce a smooth, classic fabric
• Shaping Stitches – The pattern includes make 1 (m1) for increases and skpo (slip 1, knit 1, pass slipped stitch over) for decreases, used to construct the cardigan's shaping and button bands

Materials and Yarn

The Denim Style Cardigan is designed to be knitted using DK weight yarn, specifically Debbie Bliss Amalfi in the shade Light Pale Blue 06. The yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 11 to 16 balls of 50g yarn (550 to 800 yards total, depending on the size selected). This yarn weight is ideal for creating a cardigan with good drape and structure while remaining lightweight enough for layering.

Needles and Notions

The pattern requires two pairs of knitting needles: one pair of 3.25mm (US size 3) needles for the ribbed sections and edgings, and one pair of 4mm (US size 6) needles for the main stocking stitch body. The needle size difference is integral to the pattern's shaping strategy. Additionally, 10 buttons are needed to complete the cardigan's front closure.

Tension and Fit

The pattern specifies a tension of 22 stitches and 30 rows to a 10cm (4 inch) square when working stocking stitch on 4mm needles. Achieving the correct tension is essential for the cardigan to fit properly across all seven size options. The actual bust measurements range from 92cm to 122cm (36 to 48 inches), providing generous ease for comfortable wearing and layering.