"Diana Cardigan" - Cardigan Knitting Pattern in Willow and Lark Nest

Diana Cardigan: Cable & Lace Knitting Pattern

What Is Being Made

The Diana Cardigan is a long-sleeved cardigan designed for infants, part of the Poppet Collection by Willow and Lark. This versatile garment is suitable for all seasons and features charming cable and lace stitch details. The cardigan is available in four sizes to fit ages 0-3, 3-6, 6-12, and 12-18 months, with chest measurements ranging from 41cm to 56cm (16 to 22 inches). The finished cardigan includes a ribbed button band down the front and decorative stitch work on the sleeves and either side of the button band.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting pattern employs several key construction techniques:

• Bottom-up construction: The cardigan is worked from the bottom upward, allowing knitters to try on the garment as it progresses and adjust length as needed.
• Worked flat: All pieces are knitted flat on straight needles rather than in the round, making this pattern accessible for knitters who prefer traditional flat knitting methods.
• Seamed assembly: Individual pieces are joined together using seaming techniques to create the finished garment.
• Buttonhole construction: The pattern includes buttonholes integrated into the ribbed button band, with 4 to 5 buttons depending on size.

Stitches Used

The Diana Cardigan incorporates two primary stitch techniques that create visual interest and texture:

• Lace stitches: Delicate lace detailing appears on the sleeves and flanking either side of the ribbed button band, adding an elegant, feminine touch to the design.
• Cable stitches: Cable knit elements provide textural depth and visual appeal throughout the garment.
• Stocking stitch: This fundamental knit stitch forms the base fabric and is used to measure tension at 22 stitches and 30 rows over 10cm (4 inches).
• Ribbing: Ribbed knit creates the button band and provides structure and elasticity to the cardigan edges.

Materials and Specifications

The Diana Cardigan pattern calls for Willow & Lark Nest yarn, a premium DK weight blend composed of 69% wool, 11% cashmere, and 20% Tencel. This fiber composition creates a soft, breathable fabric ideal for infant wear across multiple seasons. Yarn requirements range from 2 to 4 balls of 50g (1¾oz) depending on the size selected.

Knitting needles required include one pair of 3.75mm (UK 9, US 5) needles and one pair of 4.00mm (UK 8, US 6) needles. The pattern specifies a tension of 22 stitches and 30 rows to 10cm (4 inches) measured over stocking stitch using the 4.00mm needles, or the size required to achieve the correct gauge. The pattern also requires 4 to 5 buttons depending on the size being knitted.

Skill Level and Pattern Format

The Diana Cardigan is classified as an intermediate-level knitting pattern, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to explore cable and lace stitchwork. The pattern is available as a downloadable PDF, allowing immediate access and the ability to print or reference digitally while knitting.