Ipswich in Berroco - Downloadable PDF

Ipswich Cardigan by Amy Christoffers

What is Being Made

The Ipswich is a downloadable knitting pattern for a women's cardigan designed by Amy Christoffers. This intermediate-level project features eight size options ranging from 36½" to 67" bust measurement (closed), with finished lengths between 21" and 23" down the center back. The cardigan shown in the pattern is knit in size 45½" and is finished with eight ¾" buttons for closure.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This cardigan is constructed using circular knitting techniques, which allows for seamless or nearly seamless construction. The pattern employs both larger and smaller needle sizes to create stitch definition and shaping. The design incorporates positive ease of 2–4" for comfortable wearing, meaning the finished bust measurement is intentionally larger than the wearer's actual bust for a relaxed fit. Sleeves are worked separately and held on waste yarn before being joined to the body, a common technique in modern cardigan construction that allows for precise fit and easier finishing.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch used in the Ipswich cardigan is Stockinette Stitch (St st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a V-pattern appearance on the right side. This versatile stitch is achieved by alternating knit and purl rows when working flat, or knitting every round when working in the round. Stockinette stitch is ideal for showcasing yarn texture and drape, making it a popular choice for fitted garments like cardigans.

Yarn and Materials

The Ipswich cardigan is designed to be knit with Berroco Mantra Stonewash, a DK weight yarn. The pattern calls for 5 to 10 balls of yarn depending on the size selected, with each ball weighing 50 grams. The colorway shown is #4499 River. DK weight yarn is a medium-weight option that works well for garments requiring drape and definition without excessive bulk.

Needles required include 29" circular needles in both size 4 (3.50 mm) and size 6 (4.00 mm), as well as one set each of double-pointed needles in the same sizes for working smaller circumferences such as sleeves and necklines. The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches and 30 rounds over 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch on the larger needles. Additional notions include one stitch marker for tracking pattern repeats or shaping points, waste yarn for temporarily holding sleeve stitches, and eight buttons measuring ¾" in diameter for the cardigan front closure.

Difficulty Level

The Ipswich is rated as an intermediate-level knitting project, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond basic techniques. Knitters should be comfortable with circular knitting, gauge checking, and basic shaping before beginning this pattern.