Zinnia

Zinnia Cardigan by Maloraé Designs

What is Being Made

The Zinnia is a downloadable knitting pattern for a classic cardigan designed by Maloraé Designs. This intermediate-level project is suitable for knitters with foundational skills looking to expand their garment-making abilities. The cardigan features a fitted silhouette with button closure and is available in ten sizes, ranging from size 0 through size 9, accommodating bust circumferences from 91 cm (36 inches) to 137 cm (54 inches).

Finished Measurements and Sizing

The Zinnia cardigan offers versatile sizing options with the following key measurements:

• Bust Circumference: 91 to 137 cm (36 to 54 inches) across ten size options
• Upper Arm Circumference: 30 to 42 cm (11.5 to 16.5 inches)
• Length from Underarm to Hem: 43 cm (17 inches)
• Sleeve Length from Underarm to Cuff: 45 cm (17.5 inches)

The pattern recommends approximately 0 to 5 cm (0 to 2 inches) of positive ease for an optimal fit, allowing the wearer to choose between a closer or more relaxed silhouette depending on personal preference.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Zinnia cardigan incorporates intermediate knitting techniques that build upon basic skills. The pattern includes wrap and turn (W&T) shaping, which is a method used to create smooth, tapered sections without visible holes. This technique is particularly useful for fitted garment construction and is referenced in the pattern instructions for detailed guidance.

Stitches and Stitch Work

The primary stitch pattern used throughout the Zinnia cardigan is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a distinctive V-shaped texture on the right side. Ribbing is also incorporated, likely at the cuffs, hem, and front bands, providing elasticity and a finished appearance. The pattern requires the use of stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points, as well as stitch holders to temporarily secure stitches during construction.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Zinnia is designed to be knit with fingering weight yarn, also classified as 4-ply yarn. This lightweight yarn creates a refined, drapey fabric suitable for a fitted cardigan silhouette. Yarn yardage requirements vary by size:

• Size 0: Approximately 1240 meters (1355 yards)
• Size 1: Approximately 1310 meters (1435 yards)
• Size 2: Approximately 1375 meters (1505 yards)
• Size 3: Approximately 1445 meters (1580 yards)
• Size 4: Approximately 1525 meters (1670 yards)
• Size 5: Approximately 1595 meters (1745 yards)
• Size 6: Approximately 1665 meters (1820 yards)
• Size 7: Approximately 1730 meters (1895 yards)
• Size 8: Approximately 1800 meters (1970 yards)
• Size 9: Approximately 1865 meters (2040 yards)

The yarn is worked at a standard weight of 400 meters per 100 grams, making it easy to calculate yardage requirements for yarn substitutions.

Needles and Notions

Two needle sizes are required to create the proper gauge and fabric structure. 3.25 mm needles (US size 3) are used for the main body of the cardigan, while 2.75 mm needles (US size 2) are used for ribbing sections. This needle size differential creates a tighter, more elastic ribbed fabric that contrasts with the body. Additional supplies include stitch markers for tracking shaping, stitch holders for managing active stitches, and eight buttons measuring 12 mm for the front closure.

Gauge

The Zinnia cardigan is worked to a gauge of 27