Simplicity Cardigan

Simplicity Cardigan by Nicole Wang

What is Being Made

The Simplicity Cardigan is a beginner to intermediate level knitted cardigan designed by Nicole Wang. This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for creating a classic, wearable cardigan in three finished bust sizes: Small/Medium (48"), Large/Extra Large (52"), and Extra Extra Large (56"). The cardigan features a straightforward construction method suitable for knitters developing their skills beyond basic techniques.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project uses knitting as the primary craft method. The pattern employs circular knitting needles to construct the cardigan, which allows for seamless or nearly seamless construction. Knitters will begin with a 16-inch circular needle and transition to a 36-inch circular needle as stitches accumulate during the project, a common technique for managing increasing stitch counts in garment construction.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The Simplicity Cardigan utilizes fundamental knitting stitches and techniques appropriate for beginner to intermediate skill levels:

• Garter Stitch: The primary stitch pattern throughout the cardigan, created by knitting every row. This produces a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges.
• Knit (k): The basic knit stitch forms the foundation of the fabric.
• Purl (p): The reverse of the knit stitch, used selectively in the pattern.
• Knit into Front and Back (kfb): An increase technique that creates new stitches by working into both the front and back loops of a single stitch, used strategically for shaping.
• Knit 2 Together (k2tog): A right-leaning decrease that reduces stitch count by combining two stitches into one.
• Purl 2 Together (p2tog): A decrease worked on purl rows, combining two stitches.
• Slip Stitch (sl st): A crochet technique incorporated into the pattern, likely for finishing edges or seams.
• Cable Cast On: The method used to establish the initial stitches on the needle, providing a sturdy, finished edge.

Materials and Tools

The Simplicity Cardigan requires Bernat Premium Worsted yarn in quantities of 3 to 4 skeins, totaling approximately 1,080 to 1,400 yards depending on the finished size selected. The yarn weight is worsted (also classified as aran weight), a medium-weight yarn suitable for drape and warmth.

Essential knitting tools include:

• Size 10 (6.00 mm) circular knitting needles in both 16-inch and 36-inch lengths for the main fabric construction
• Size 10 (6.00 mm) 12-inch circular needle or double-pointed needles (dpn) for smaller sections such as sleeves or neckline
• Size G/6 (4.25 mm) crochet hook for finishing techniques and edge work
• Ring markers for tracking pattern repeats and structural sections
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends and assembling pieces

Gauge and Fit

The pattern specifies a gauge of 13 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in garter stitch. Achieving this gauge is essential for the cardigan to fit as designed. Knitters should swatch before beginning the project to ensure their tension matches the pattern requirements, as variations in gauge will affect the finished bust measurements and overall fit of the garment.

Pattern Structure

The pattern begins with a cable cast on of 40 (40, 44) stitches depending on size selection. Construction uses a systematic approach with marked sections that guide increases and shaping. The use of markers divides the work into distinct areas, allowing knitters to track increases and maintain symmetry throughout the cardigan's body. The straightforward garter stitch construction combined with strategic increases creates the cardigan's silhouette while remaining accessible to knitters building intermediate skills.