"Tessa Cardigan" - Cardigan Knitting Pattern For Women in Willow and Lark Nest

Tessa Cardigan: Fitted Knit Cardigan with Neck Tie

What is Being Made

The Tessa Cardigan is a fitted women's cardigan designed by Jennie Atkinson as part of the Best of British Collection. This sophisticated garment features a nipped waist created with rich textured cluster stitch, English tailored shoulder seams, and a decorative tie at the neck. The cardigan is versatile enough for both smart occasions and casual wear, equally suited to afternoon tea or pairing with jeans and summer dresses. Available in six sizes to fit bust measurements from 81 cm to 107 cm (32 to 42 inches).

Techniques Used

The Tessa Cardigan employs several key knitting techniques to achieve its polished, vintage-inspired aesthetic:

• Worked flat: The cardigan is constructed using flat knitting rather than in-the-round, allowing for traditional seaming and shaping
• Seamed construction: Pieces are joined together with English tailored shoulder seams for a refined, structured finish
• Buttonhole placement: Strategic buttonholes are incorporated throughout the front opening for functional closure
• Cluster stitch: A rich textured stitch is used at the waist to create the fitted silhouette that defines this design

Stitches and Stitch Details

The pattern features cluster stitch as the primary textured element, particularly at the waist where it creates visual interest and helps define the cardigan's fitted shape. This stitch technique adds depth and dimension to the garment while maintaining the sophisticated, tailored appearance characteristic of vintage British knitwear.

Materials and Tools

The Tessa Cardigan is designed to be knitted with Willow & Lark Nest yarn, a premium DK weight blend containing 69% wool, 11% cashmere, and 20% Tencel. Each ball provides 50g (1¾ oz) of yarn. Yardage requirements range from 9 to 11 balls depending on size selected. Knitting needles required include one pair of 3.75mm (UK 9 / US 5) needles and one pair of 4.00mm needles for working different sections of the pattern. The suggested colorways include Verdigris Green and Heather.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as advanced difficulty, making it suitable for experienced knitters who are comfortable with fitted garment construction, shaping techniques, and textured stitches. The combination of cluster stitch work, precise waist shaping, and tailored seaming requires solid foundational knitting skills.

Finished Measurements

The cardigan is offered in six sizes with the following finished measurements at the underarm: 86 cm to 114 cm (33¾ to 45 inches). Length ranges from 55 to 60 cm (21½ to 23½ inches) measured to the side neck, with sleeve seams measuring 44 to 46 cm (17¼ to 18 inches) depending on size.