Sea Stones

Sea Stones Cardigan by Melissa Schaschwary

Project Overview

Sea Stones is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Melissa Schaschwary. This downloadable PDF pattern provides comprehensive instructions for creating a fitted, button-front cardigan available in five sizes ranging from XS (32.5" bust) to XL (48.5" bust). The design showcases classic cardigan construction with thoughtful shaping details and finishing techniques suitable for knitters with foundational skills and experience.

What Is Being Made

The Sea Stones cardigan is a structured, wearable garment featuring a button-front closure. The pattern includes sizing options to accommodate different body measurements, with bust circumferences ranging from 32.5 inches (XS) to 48.5 inches (XL). Yarn requirements scale with size, from 800 yards for the smallest size to 1340 yards for the largest, allowing knitters to select appropriate yardage based on their chosen finished dimensions.

Knitting Techniques

This intermediate cardigan employs several key knitting techniques that add depth and sophistication to the construction:

• Short Rows with Wrap and Turn: Advanced shaping technique used to create custom fit and garment contours without increasing stitch count dramatically
• Magic Loop Method: Circular knitting technique available as an alternative to double-pointed needles for working smaller circumferences
• Stockinette Stitch: The primary fabric structure, creating a smooth, classic appearance
• Reinforced Button Holes: One-row button hole construction with reinforcement for durability and neat appearance
• Sewn Bind Off: Elizabeth Zimmerman's sewn bind-off technique provides a professional, flexible edge finish
• Steam Blocking: Finishing method to set stitches and achieve polished dimensions

Stitches and Stitch Details

The Sea Stones cardigan is constructed primarily using stockinette stitch, the foundation of the fabric. The pattern incorporates reinforced button holes worked in a single row for a streamlined front closure. Stitch markers are used throughout construction to track pattern repeats and shaping points. The gauge is established at 16 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) of stockinette stitch using size 8/5mm needles, ensuring proper fit and fabric drape across all sizes.

Materials and Tools Required

Yarn: The pattern recommends Lark by Quince and Co in Worsted weight (10 ply), which provides excellent stitch definition and durability for a cardigan. Worsted and aran weight yarns are suitable for this project, offering good stitch visibility and manageable working speed. Yardage requirements vary by size: XS requires 800 yards (732 meters), S requires 940 yards (859 meters), M requires 1070 yards (978 meters), L requires 1210 yards (1106 meters), and XL requires 1340 yards (1225 meters).

Needles: The pattern calls for size 6/4mm needles for ribbing or cuff work, with size 8/5mm needles used for the body to achieve proper gauge. Needle options include double-pointed needles (dpns) or circular needles using the magic loop technique, providing flexibility based on knitter preference and available tools.

Notions and Finishing Supplies: Four stitch markers assist in tracking pattern sections and shaping. Three buttons, each 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter, are required for the front closure. A tapestry needle is essential for weaving in ends and executing the sewn bind-off technique.

Pattern Format and Accessibility

Sea Stones is provided as a downloadable PDF, making it immediately accessible for digital viewing, printing, or tablet reference during knitting. The pattern includes linked video tutorials for key techniques, including Long Tail Cast On, Steam Blocking, Short Row Wrap and Turn methods, button hole construction, and proper button shank creation. These supplementary resources support knitters in executing advanced techniques with confidence.