Dot Matrix

Dot Matrix Cardigan by Corrine Walcher

What is Being Made

The Dot Matrix Cardigan is a hip-length, ribbed cardigan designed by Corrine Walcher to showcase the beautiful shifting color gradients found in Space Cadet's gradient Sweater Kit in Lyra. This intermediate-level knitting project is available in six sizes, ranging from 32 inches to 52 inches in chest circumference, making it a versatile design suitable for various body types. The cardigan features a snug, fitted silhouette due to its ribbed construction and is designed to be worn as a classic layering piece.

Finished Dimensions

• Chest measurements: 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, and 52 inches
• Sleeve circumference: 14.75, 15.75, 17.6, 18.4, 19.6, and 20.4 inches
• Length: 13 to 16 inches from cast-on edge to underarm; 21.5 to 27 inches from cast-on edge to shoulder seam

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Dot Matrix Cardigan employs ribbed knitting as its primary stitch pattern, which creates vertical columns of texture and contributes to the garment's snug, fitted appearance. Ribbing is a fundamental knitting technique that alternates knit and purl stitches to produce an elastic, form-fitting fabric with excellent recovery. This technique is particularly effective for cardigans as it provides structure and shape while allowing for comfortable movement. The ribbed construction means the cardigan will cling closely to the body, so Corrine Walcher recommends that knitters between sizes should choose the next size up to ensure comfortable wear.

The pattern takes advantage of the color-shifting properties of the gradient yarn, allowing the ribbed texture to interact with the changing hues throughout the garment for a dynamic visual effect.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Dot Matrix Cardigan is designed specifically to use the Space Cadet Lyra Sweater Kit, which features 100% superwash merino wool. This premium yarn is available in 100-gram skeins, with each skein providing 270 yards of yardage. The pattern requires 5 skeins for most sizes, though the largest size (52 inches) may require an additional half skein depending on specific choices made during construction. The sample cardigan shown in the pattern was knit in the Perilous colorway, which showcases the gradient effect beautifully.

Needles and Tools

This pattern calls for US #5/3.75mm circular needles measuring 32 inches or longer. Knitters working the larger sizes may prefer to use an even longer circular needle to accommodate the increased stitch count comfortably. Additionally, the pattern requires a set of US #5/3.75mm double-pointed needles or the knitter's preferred method for working small circumferences, typically used for sleeve caps and other sections that require working in the round on a smaller diameter.

Yarn Weight and Difficulty Level

The Dot Matrix Cardigan is worked in DK and sport weight yarns, which are lightweight to medium-weight options that create a fabric with excellent drape and fluidity. These yarn weights are ideal for cardigans as they provide structure without excessive bulk. The pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to tackle more complex shaping and construction methods. The intermediate skill level reflects the pattern's requirements for working with circular needles, managing multiple sizes, and executing the ribbed stitch pattern with consistency.