Foster

Foster Cardigan by Terri Kruse

What Is Being Made

Foster is an advanced-level cardigan designed by independent designer Terri Kruse. This knitted sweater features an asymmetrical construction combined with cable detailing, created using a top-down knitting method. The design offers two distinct options: a right-side opening cardigan (Option 1, shown in the sample) or a left-side opening cardigan (Option 2), allowing knitters to customize the garment's front closure orientation to suit their preference.

Finished Measurements

Foster is available in six sizes with the following finished measurements:

• Chest circumference: 33, 36, 38.75, 40.5, 43, or 46 inches
• Total length: 22, 22.25, 22.5, 23, 24, or 24.25 inches

Knitting Techniques

This cardigan employs several advanced knitting techniques that contribute to its sophisticated design. The top-down construction method allows knitters to begin at the neckline and work downward, which provides flexibility for fit adjustments and makes it easy to try on the garment as it develops. The asymmetrical shaping creates visual interest and a modern silhouette. Cable knitting is incorporated throughout the design, adding texture and dimension to the finished piece. The combination of these three techniques—asymmetry, cables, and top-down construction—forms the conceptual foundation of the Foster design.

Stitches and Stitch Abbreviations

Foster uses fundamental knitting stitches and specialized increase techniques common to advanced patterns:

• Knit (k) and purl (p) stitches form the base fabric in stockinette stitch
• Knit front and back (kfb) for increasing stitches
• Make one right (m1R)—lifting the strand between stitches from the back with the left needle and knitting through the front loop
• Make one left (m1L)—a left-leaning increase variation
• Cable stitches for textured pattern elements
• Cast on (CO) and bind off (BO) for beginning and finishing edges

Gauge and Fabric

Proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements. Foster requires a gauge of 20 stitches and 26 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch when the knitted fabric is washed and blocked. This gauge specification ensures that the asymmetrical shaping and cable details align correctly throughout the garment.

Materials and Yarn

Foster is designed to be knitted with worsted-weight yarn. The pattern specifies Springtree Road Philomath Worsted, a yarn composed of 100% Merino fiber that provides softness and breathability ideal for a wearable cardigan. Yardage requirements vary by size:

• Sizes XS–M: 5 skeins or 500–600 grams (approximately 1,080–1,296 yards)
• Sizes L–XL: 6–7 skeins or 630–675 grams (approximately 1,296–1,512 yards)

The pattern recommends the color Tanis for the sample shown. Knitters will also need appropriate needles for worsted-weight yarn and stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points.

Difficulty Level

Foster is rated as an advanced knitting project, making it suitable for experienced knitters who are comfortable with cable work, asymmetrical construction, and top-down shaping techniques. The combination of multiple advanced techniques requires strong foundational knitting skills and the ability to read and interpret complex pattern instructions.

Format

Foster is available as a downloadable PDF pattern, allowing immediate access to the complete instructions, schematics, and abbreviation key for convenient reference during knitting.