Knautia

Knautia Cardigan by Maloraé Designs

What is Being Made

The Knautia is an advanced-level knitted cardigan designed by independent designer Maloraé Designs. This downloadable PDF pattern offers eight size options ranging from size 0 through size 7, with finished bust circumferences from 87 cm (34 inches) up to 155 cm (61 inches). The cardigan features a classic construction with set-in sleeves, ribbed edging, and button-front closure, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various body types and fit preferences.

Finished Measurements and Sizing

The Knautia accommodates a wide range of measurements with the following specifications:

• Bust Circumference (Measurement A): 87, 95, 103, 113, 120, 137, 145, or 155 cm (34, 37.5, 40, 44.5, 47, 54, 57, or 61 inches)
• Upper Arm Circumference (Measurement B): 29, 30, 31, 32, 36, 39, 42, or 45 cm (11.5, 11.8, 12, 12.5, 14, 15, 16.5, or 17.8 inches)
• Length from Underarm to Hem (Measurement C): 43 cm (17 inches)
• Sleeve Length from Underarm to Cuff (Measurement D): 47 cm (18.5 inches)

The pattern recommends approximately 0 to 5 cm (0 to 2 inches) of positive ease for the most flattering fit.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Knautia cardigan incorporates several intermediate to advanced knitting techniques that add visual interest and texture to the finished garment:

• Wrap and Turn (W&T): This technique is used to create shaped sections of the cardigan, allowing for custom shaping around the body and armholes. W&T creates smooth transitions without visible holes, essential for a polished, professional finish on fitted garments.
• Cables Without Cable Needle: The pattern features cable stitches worked without the use of a traditional cable needle, a technique that streamlines the knitting process while creating the dimensional, twisted rope-like textures characteristic of cable work.

Stitches and Stitch Work

The primary stitch pattern used throughout the Knautia is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a recognizable V-pattern on the right side. This foundational stitch is worked at a gauge of 26 stitches and 36 rows per 10 cm (4 inches) when measured on 3.5 mm needles after blocking. The cardigan also features ribbed edging at the cuffs, hem, and button bands, which provides elasticity and helps the garment maintain its shape during wear and washing.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Knautia is designed to be worked in fingering weight yarn, also known as 4-ply yarn. The pattern sample was knitted using merino yarn from Heidi Idea (400 meters per 100 grams, in the colorway Bordeaux). Total yardage requirements vary by size:

• Sizes 0–1: Approximately 1100–1200 meters (1205–1315 yards)
• Sizes 2–3: Approximately 1300–1430 meters (1425–1565 yards)
• Sizes 4–5: Approximately 1580–1730 meters (1730–1895 yards)
• Sizes 6–7: Approximately 1835–1960 meters (2005–2145 yards)

Needles and Notions

The pattern calls for two needle sizes to accommodate the different stitch densities required for the ribbed and stockinette sections:

• 3.5 mm (US Size 4) needles: Used for the body of the cardigan worked in stockinette stitch
• 3 mm (US Size 2.5) needles: Used for the ribbed sections including cuffs, hem, and button bands