Three Rectangles, Two Triangles

Three Rectangles, Two Triangles Cardigan

About This Design

Three Rectangles, Two Triangles is an intermediate-level knitting cardigan pattern designed by Staci Perry. This downloadable PDF pattern offers a straightforward construction method based on geometric shapes: three rectangular pieces form the body and sleeves, while two triangular pieces create shaping details. The design is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to 3XL, accommodating actual bust measurements from 28 to 52 inches.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This cardigan employs a modular construction approach that simplifies the building process for intermediate knitters. Rather than working in complex integrated sections, the pattern breaks down into distinct geometric components that are knitted separately and then seamed together. This method allows knitters to manage gauge and shaping more easily, as each piece can be completed before moving to the next.

The pattern utilizes mock rib stitch as the primary stitch pattern throughout the garment. Mock rib creates a textured, elastic fabric with excellent drape and recovery, making it ideal for a cardigan that maintains its shape through wear and washing. The gauge for this pattern is 4 stitches to the inch and 5 rows to the inch in the mock rib pattern, which is important to achieve the correct finished measurements.

Construction involves basic knitting abbreviations including knit (K), purl (P), bind-off (BO), and references to right side (RS) and wrong side (WS) work. Seaming is required to join the rectangular and triangular pieces together, making a tapestry needle essential for finishing.

Unique Swatch Feature

The pattern includes a clever design element: the gauge swatch doubles as a finished pocket. This efficient approach means that once you complete your required swatch to verify gauge accuracy, you will have already knitted one pocket for the cardigan, reducing overall project time and waste.

Materials Required

Yarn: Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Bulky in Wine, 100% Peruvian Highland Wool. Yardage requirements vary by size:

• XS: 7 hanks (137 yards per hank)
• S: 8 hanks
• M: 9 hanks
• L: 10 hanks
• XL: 11 hanks
• 2XL: 12 hanks
• 3XL: 13 hanks

Needles: US Size 9 (5.5mm) circular needles or straight needles, or the size needed to achieve correct gauge. Circular needles are recommended for ease of working larger pieces, though straights are acceptable.

Additional Materials: A tapestry needle is required for seaming the geometric pieces together and weaving in yarn ends.

Yarn Characteristics

Knit Picks Wool of the Andes Bulky is a worsted-weight yarn made from 100% Peruvian Highland Wool. This natural fiber choice provides warmth, durability, and the elasticity needed for a well-fitting cardigan. The bulky weight allows for relatively quick knitting while still creating a fabric with good structure and drape suitable for a cardigan silhouette.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, this pattern is appropriate for knitters who have mastered basic stitches and seaming techniques but may still be developing their skills with shaping and garment construction. The geometric approach to construction makes it more accessible than patterns requiring complex shaping within individual pieces.