New Wave Cardigan

New Wave Cardigan by Mary Annarella

What is Being Made

The New Wave Cardigan is a top-down, raglan-sleeved, seamless cardigan designed to be worn open. This knitted garment features a modified construction based on Mary Annarella's original Making Waves design. The cardigan is available in seven sizes, ranging from 30 inches to 50 inches bust measurement, with finished back measurements starting at 15 inches. Because the New Wave is designed as an open-front garment rather than a closed cardigan, sizing is based on the measurement across the back of the garment when laid flat, making it an ideal choice for layering and versatile styling.

Knitting Techniques Used

New Wave employs several key knitting techniques to create its distinctive silhouette and construction. The cardigan is worked from the top down in a seamless construction method, which allows for easy fitting adjustments and the ability to try on the garment as you knit. The raglan sleeve shaping is integrated into the main body, eliminating the need for seaming. The design incorporates ruched trim details that add visual interest and texture to the finished piece. The twisted rib stitch is used at both the cuffs and hem, providing elasticity and a refined finished edge. The open-front design means the cardigan is shaped to drape beautifully when worn unbuttoned.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch used throughout most of the New Wave Cardigan is stockinette stitch (stst), which creates a smooth, classic fabric. Twisted rib is featured at the cuffs and hem, providing textured detail and elastic recovery at these high-wear areas. The ruched trim incorporates additional shaping and texture work. These stitch combinations create a garment with both smooth body fabric and defined ribbed edges.

Materials and Gauge

The New Wave Cardigan is designed for 4-ply yarn weight, a versatile medium weight suitable for creating well-draping garments. The pattern specifies a gauge of 24 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches (measured after blocking) when working in stockinette stitch on a size 5 needle, or the appropriate needle size needed to achieve the correct gauge. Proper gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished measurements and fit of the cardigan. Knitters should always swatch and block before beginning the project to ensure their yarn and needle combination produces the correct gauge.

Difficulty Level

The New Wave Cardigan is rated as a beginner level knitting project, making it accessible to knitters who are new to garment construction. While the pattern involves top-down seamless construction and raglan shaping, these techniques are well-suited for learning fundamental garment-making skills. The straightforward stitch patterns and clear shaping instructions make this an excellent introduction to cardigan knitting.