Preppy Cardigan

Preppy Cardigan by Sian Brown

What is Being Made

The Preppy Cardigan is a classic button-front cardigan designed by Sian Brown, available in four sizes to fit bust measurements from 82-86 cm (32-34 in) through 112-117 cm (44-46 in). This knitted cardigan features a tailored silhouette with shaped waist shaping and finished sleeve length of 14-15 cm (5½-6 in), making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is created using knitting as the primary craft method. The cardigan is constructed using fundamental knitting techniques including shaping through decreases and increases, which create the fitted waist and bust shaping characteristic of preppy-style cardigans. The garment is worked in pieces (back, fronts, and sleeves) before being assembled, a standard construction method for structured cardigan designs.

Stitches Used

• Moss Stitch (Seed Stitch) – Used for the ribbed edging at the lower edge, creating a textured, non-curling border that provides structure and a polished finish
• Stockinette Stitch (St St) – The primary stitch used throughout the body of the cardigan, creating a smooth, classic fabric with characteristic V-shaped columns
• Decreases (skpo and k2tog) – Used strategically to shape the waist, creating a fitted silhouette by reducing stitches at set intervals
• Increases (m1) – Employed to add shaping at the bust area, expanding the garment width to create the cardigan's tailored proportions

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This cardigan is designed to be knitted using Debbie Bliss Pure Cotton yarn in the shade Candy Pink (07). The yarn weight is DK (Double Knit), a medium-weight yarn ideal for creating garments with good drape and structure. The pattern requires 8-10 balls of 50g each, depending on size selection. The total yardage varies by size to accommodate the different measurements.

The project calls for two pairs of knitting needles: 4mm (US 6) needles for the ribbed edging sections and 5mm (US 8) needles for the main fabric. This needle size variation is a standard technique to create tighter, more defined edges while maintaining the desired gauge in the body of the garment.

Finishing Details

The cardigan is completed with 8 buttons, which are used to close the front opening. These buttons are essential functional elements that define the cardigan's classic preppy aesthetic and allow for adjustable fit and styling versatility.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as beginner level, making it accessible to knitters who have mastered basic stitches and simple shaping techniques. The straightforward construction, use of fundamental stitches, and clear shaping instructions make this an excellent project for developing knitting skills while creating a wearable, stylish garment.

Pattern Format

The Preppy Cardigan pattern is available as a downloadable PDF, allowing immediate access to complete pattern instructions, sizing charts, and construction details for convenient reference during the knitting process.