Edison

Edison Cardigan by Taiga Hilliard Designs

Project Overview

Edison is an open front cardigan designed by Taiga Hilliard Designs, perfect for layering over tanks or shirts. This intermediate-level knitting project features a timeless construction method and versatile styling that works across seasons. The cardigan is suitable for both warm-weather and cold-weather yarns, making it an adaptable wardrobe staple.

What Is Being Made

The Edison cardigan is a classic open front garment available in six sizes ranging from XS to XXL, with chest measurements from 28–30 inches up to 48–52 inches. The design showcases simple stripes that add visual interest while maintaining the straightforward construction appropriate for intermediate knitters.

Construction Method and Techniques

Edison is knit top down, a construction method that allows knitters to try on the garment as it progresses and easily adjust length to personal preference. This approach eliminates the need for seaming and provides flexibility in customization. The pattern incorporates fundamental knitting techniques including increases, decreases, and marker placement to shape the garment.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques Used

• Knit (K) – The foundational stitch creating the fabric base
• Purl (P) – Used in combination with knit stitches, likely for textural elements or stripe definition
• Yarn Over (YO) – Creates decorative openings or lace elements
• Knit Two Together (K2tog) – A right-leaning decrease used for shaping
• Slip, Slip, Knit (SSK) – A left-leaning decrease providing balanced shaping
• Knit into Front and Back (Kfb) – An increase method for adding stitches
• Make One Left (M1L) – Picking up the horizontal strand between stitches from front to back and knitting through the back loop for invisible increases
• Make One Right (M1R) – Picking up the horizontal strand between stitches from back to front for invisible increases
• Marker Placement and Management (Pm, Sm, Rm) – Essential for tracking pattern sections and shaping points throughout the construction

Yarn and Materials

Edison accommodates multiple fiber types and weights, offering flexibility for different seasons and preferences. The pattern sample uses Madelinetosh Merino DK in the colorways Silver Fox (main color) and Edison Bulb (contrast color). Knitters can substitute with bamboo or cotton yarns for lightweight summer versions or wool for warmer winter iterations. Both DK and worsted weight yarns are suitable, allowing customization based on desired drape and warmth.

Yardage Requirements

Total yardage varies by size and fiber choice. The main color requires between 300 to 700 yards, while the contrast color for stripes requires 300 to 550 yards. This range accommodates the full size spectrum from XS through XXL.

Needles and Gauge

The pattern calls for US size 6 (4.00 mm) needles, though knitters should adjust needle size as needed to achieve the specified gauge. The target gauge is 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch, which is standard for DK weight yarn. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements across all sizes.

Notions

The Edison cardigan requires 2 buttons for closure at the front opening, completing the classic cardigan silhouette.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, Edison is accessible to knitters with foundational skills who are comfortable with top-down construction, increases, decreases, and working with stitch markers. The simple stripe pattern and straightforward shaping make this an excellent project for building confidence in garment construction.