Melissa

Melissa Cardigan by Pat Menchini

What is Being Made

Melissa is a knitted cardigan designed by Pat Menchini, available as a downloadable PDF pattern. This intermediate-level project creates a classic button-up cardigan suitable for a range of sizes, from bust measurements of 76-81 cm up to 127-132 cm, making it versatile for various body types and fit preferences.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project uses knitting as the primary craft method. The cardigan is constructed using fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for an intermediate skill level, making it accessible to knitters with some experience but not requiring advanced expertise.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Melissa cardigan incorporates multiple stitch techniques to create visual interest and structure:

• Stockinette stitch (st st) — the primary stitch used throughout much of the garment, creating a smooth, classic fabric
• Pattern stitches — additional stitch patterns are featured in the design, with specific tension requirements for patterned sections
• Ribbing — implied through the use of different needle sizes, typically used for cuffs, waistbands, and button bands to create elasticity and structure

The pattern uses two different tension gauges: 22 stitches and 28 rows over 10 cm in stockinette stitch, and 26 stitches and 30 rows over 10 cm in pattern stitch, both measured using 4 mm needles.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Melissa cardigan is designed to be worked in King Cole Subtle Drifter DK yarn, a DK weight yarn offering 300 metres (328 yards) per 100g ball. The pattern calls for two complementary shades:

• Shade A, Oatmeal (4385) — 2 to 4 balls of 100g, depending on size
• Shade B, Cream (4393) — 2 to 3 balls of 100g, depending on size

The two-color approach creates a subtle color-work design that adds depth to the finished garment. Total yarn requirements range from approximately 400g for smaller sizes to 700g for the largest size.

Needles and Notions

The pattern requires two pairs of knitting needles to accommodate different stitch densities:

• 3.25 mm needles (UK 10, US 3) — used for ribbed sections
• 4 mm needles (UK 8, US 6) — used for main fabric and pattern work

Additional notions include 1 stitch holder for managing stitches during construction and 8 buttons for the front closure, making this a fully functional button-up cardigan.

Sizing and Finished Measurements

The Melissa cardigan is available in six sizes to fit bust measurements from 76-81 cm (30-32 inches) through 127-132 cm (50-52 inches). The actual finished bust measurements range from 88 cm (34¾ inches) for the smallest size to 138 cm (54½ inches) for the largest, providing approximately 12 cm of positive ease for comfortable wearing. Length to shoulder shaping varies from 48 cm (19 inches) in the smallest size to 54 cm (21¼ inches) in the largest, with sleeve seams ranging from 44 cm (17½ inches) to 46 cm (18 inches) depending on size.