Bee Stitch Cardigan

Bee Stitch Cardigan by Danielle Chalson

Project Overview

The Bee Stitch Cardigan is a knitted garment inspired by classic sportswear, designed as a study in contrasting textures. This intermediate-level cardigan features a distinctive brioche-like bee stitch on the body, paired with fitted sleeves worked in stretchy slipped-stitch ribbing, and finished with an i-cord edge. The design is available in five finished chest circumference sizes: 35, 39, 42½, 46½, and 51 inches (89, 99, 108, 118, and 129.5 centimeters).

Construction Method

The Bee Stitch Cardigan is worked top-down in one continuous piece, beginning from the yoke and progressing downward to the body. This construction approach incorporates raglan shaping, which creates a smooth, fitted silhouette from the shoulders down through the body. The top-down methodology allows for easy adjustments and fitting as you progress through the garment.

Stitch Techniques

• Bee Stitch: The primary stitch used for the cardigan body, creating a brioche-like textured fabric. This stitch is worked over 19 stitches and requires 41 rows to achieve a 4-inch (10 centimeter) square, contributing to the garment's distinctive visual interest and dimensional quality.
• Slipped-Stitch Ribbing: Used for the fitted sleeves, this technique creates a stretchy, elastic fabric that provides comfortable movement and a tailored appearance. The slipped-stitch ribbing is worked over 36 stitches and requires 41 rounds to achieve a 4-inch (10 centimeter) square after blocking.
• I-Cord Edging: Applied to finish and define the edges of the cardigan, created using a provisional cast-on with waste yarn for a seamless, professional appearance.
• Raglan Shaping: Incorporated throughout the yoke and upper body to create a fitted, classic silhouette.

Materials and Specifications

This pattern requires DK-weight yarn with a standard yardage of 140 yards (128 meters) per approximately 50 grams (1.75 ounces). Total yardage needed ranges from 1540 yards for the smallest size to 2660 yards for the largest size. The sample cardigan shown in the pattern is knitted in Swans Island Organic Washable DK, a 100% merino wool yarn in the colorway "verdigris."

Essential tools include US 6 (4.0 millimeter) circular needles in a 32-inch (80 centimeter) length and a set of double-pointed needles (DPNs), or needles in the size required to obtain the specified gauges. Additional supplies include stitch markers, stitch holders, waste yarn for the provisional cast-on, a yarn needle for weaving in ends, and five 1-inch (2.5 centimeter) buttons for the cardigan front closure.

Gauge and Blocking

Accurate gauge is essential for this project. The bee stitch body should measure 19 stitches and 41 rows over a 4-inch (10 centimeter) square. The slipped-stitch ribbing used on the sleeves should measure 36 stitches and 41 rounds over a 4-inch (10 centimeter) square after blocking. Proper blocking ensures that the finished cardigan achieves the intended dimensions and drape.

Difficulty Level

Rated as an intermediate knitting project, the Bee Stitch Cardigan is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle more complex stitch patterns and garment construction techniques. The combination of specialty stitches, top-down raglan shaping, and multiple gauge requirements makes this an engaging project for developing knitters.