Miss bb

Miss BB Cardigan by Bonne Marie Burns

What is Being Made

Miss BB is a sophisticated cardigan design from the Chic Knits collection, available in seven size options ranging from 34" to 50" chest circumference. This intermediate-level knitting project produces a finished garment with a length of 24" to 26" depending on size, making it suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone piece. The cardigan features button closure with six 3/4" buttons and optional grosgrain ribbon detailing.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The Miss BB cardigan employs a methodical construction approach typical of modern cardigan design. The garment begins with a ribbed edge created using smaller needles, establishing a neat and elastic foundation. The pattern uses a two-needle technique, switching from smaller to larger needles after the initial ribbed section to create the main body fabric. Chart-based patterning is incorporated throughout the design, with detailed stitch charts guiding the placement of decorative elements across the back and presumably the front panels. The pattern includes strategic shaping and sizing information to accommodate multiple bust measurements within a single pattern.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure relies on stockinette stitch (St st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric suitable for a refined cardigan silhouette. The pattern incorporates charted stitch patterns—referenced as Chart A—which introduce textural variation and visual interest to the lower back section. These charted sections are worked using fundamental knitting stitches including knit and purl stitches, which are manipulated according to the chart symbols to create the intended pattern. The ribbed cuff utilizes knit and purl combinations to produce the characteristic elastic edge.

Materials and Specifications

This cardigan requires aran weight yarn, with yardage requirements varying by size: 975 yards for the smallest size (34" chest) up to 1,880 yards for the largest size (50" chest). The pattern calls for straight needles in sizes #6 (4mm) and #8 (5mm), allowing for the needle-size transition that shapes the garment. The gauge is set at 18 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch using the larger needles, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements. Additional materials include a cable needle for any cable work within the charted patterns, stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends, and scrap yarn for provisional cast-ons or stitch holders. Six 3/4" buttons serve as the closure mechanism, with optional 1.5 yards of grosgrain ribbon available for reinforcement or decorative purposes.

Pattern Format

Miss BB is provided as a downloadable PDF pattern, making it immediately accessible for digital viewing, printing, or tablet reference while knitting. The pattern is designed by independent designer Bonne Marie Burns and represents intermediate-level knitting skill, suitable for knitters with foundational knowledge who are ready to work with charts and manage multiple sizes.