Iroise

Iroise Cardigan by Atelier des Glenettes

Garment Overview

The Iroise is a women's cardigan pattern designed by Atelier des Glenettes, available in six sizes ranging from XS to XXL with bust circumferences of 33 to 47 inches. This knitted cardigan features a sophisticated construction with a finished length between 19¼ and 21¼ inches, depending on size selection. The garment is suitable for intermediate-level knitters seeking a refined, wearable design.

Knitting Techniques

This cardigan employs several foundational and intermediate knitting techniques that create visual interest and structural integrity. The pattern incorporates reverse stockinette stitch as a primary fabric base, which produces a textured, bumpy surface ideal for showcasing stitch definition. Slipped stitches are used throughout the pattern, a technique where stitches are moved from one needle to another without working them, creating clean edges and decorative effects. The design features 1x1 ribbing, a classic elastic stitch pattern that alternates single knit and purl stitches, typically used for cuffs and edges to provide structure and recovery.

A distinctive element of the Iroise is its cable pattern, which is notably worked without requiring a cable needle—a technique that simplifies the process while maintaining the twisted, rope-like appearance cables are known for. This approach makes the pattern more accessible while preserving the visual sophistication of cable work.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The pattern utilizes the following core stitches and abbreviations:

• Knit (k) — the fundamental stitch creating smooth, V-shaped columns
• Purl (p) — the reverse of knit, creating bumpy texture
• Purl 2 together (p2tog) — a decrease that combines two stitches into one with a leftward lean
• Purl into front and back (pfb) — an increase that creates two stitches from one
• Slipped stitch (sl. st.) — transferring a stitch without working it
• Cast on (CO) — the foundation row of stitches
• Place marker (PM) — positioning reference points for pattern sections

Materials and Gauge

The Iroise requires sport weight yarn, a lightweight yarn category ideal for drape and refined stitch definition. Yardage requirements range from 950 to 1350 meters (1040 to 1475 yards) depending on size, with the pattern sample photographed in (Vi)laines Rebelles yarn. Knitters will need two sizes of circular needles: US #2½ (3 mm) and US #4 (3.5 mm), allowing for different fabric densities in various sections. Additional materials include four stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, six buttons measuring 15 mm (½ inch) for the cardigan front closure, and one spare needle for techniques such as three-needle bind-off or stitch holder functions.

The gauge is 26 stitches by 34 rows over 10 centimeters (4 inches) when worked on the larger needles following the motif pattern. Achieving correct gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished dimensions and fit across all size options.

Size Range and Finished Dimensions

Available in six sizes with the following specifications:

• XS: 33-inch bust, 49 cm length
• S/M: 35-inch bust, 50 cm length
• M/L: 37-inch bust, 51 cm length
• L/XL: 39-inch bust, 52 cm length
• XL/XXL: 43-inch bust, 53 cm length
• XXL: 47-inch bust, 54 cm length

Chest measurements (taken under the arms) range from 38 to 51 centimeters (15 to 20 inches), providing precise fit guidance for pattern selection.

Skill Level

Classified as an intermediate difficulty pattern, the Iroise cardigan is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle cable techniques, multiple