Contented Cardi

Contented Cardi by Hannah Fettig

What is Being Made

The Contented Cardi is an open-front cardigan featuring a distinctive surprise cable detail on the back. This intermediate-level knitting project offers versatility in cable placement, allowing makers to position the back cable either high between the shoulder blades or low at waist level for personalized styling.

Design and Construction

This cardigan is constructed using a top-down method, beginning at the neckline and working downward. The pattern accommodates seven different sizes, with back stitch counts ranging from 82 to 140 stitches depending on the desired finished size. The garment features a seamless construction using circular needles, with sleeves divided from the body during the knitting process.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Increases: The pattern employs M1L (make one left) and M1R (make one right) increases worked at the edges of front panels to shape the cardigan body
• Cable Work: A cable detail appears on the back of the garment, providing visual interest and textural contrast
• Seamless Construction: Worked in the round on circular needles to eliminate seaming
• Top-Down Shaping: The cardigan is designed to be worked from the top down, allowing for easy customization of length

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

• Knit and Purl: Fundamental stitches form the base fabric
• Cable Stitches: The signature back cable detail adds dimension and visual interest to the design
• Increases (M1L and M1R): Strategic increases shape the front panels and body

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Contented Cardi is designed for worsted weight yarn, making it an accessible project for intermediate knitters. The pattern requires a longer circular needle suitable for working the body in the round. Yardage requirements scale with the chosen size, with the cast-on beginning at 58 stitches for the smallest size and expanding to accommodate larger finished measurements.

Pattern Notes and Customization

The pattern emphasizes careful reading, particularly after dividing the sleeves from the body, as this transition point requires attention to maintain proper shaping. The flexibility in cable placement allows knitters to customize the garment's appearance while maintaining the same basic construction. The design accommodates length customization, with instructions to work until the piece measures 1.5 inches less than the desired finished length from the underarm.