KnittingandGin Cardigan

Knitting & Gin Cardigan by Sue Stratford

What is Being Made

The Knitting & Gin Cardigan is a classic button-front cardigan designed by Sue Stratford. This garment is crafted as a seamless or minimal-seam construction, featuring a fitted yoke that transitions into body and sleeve sections. The cardigan is designed to be worn with zero ease, meaning the finished bust measurement should match your actual bust measurement for an ideal fit. The design offers 10 size options ranging from 32 inches (81.5 cm) to 55 inches (139.5 cm) bust circumference, making it accessible to a wide range of body types.

Sizing and Finished Measurements

This cardigan is available in 10 carefully graded sizes with the following key measurements:

• Bust (when closed): 81.5 to 139.5 cm (32 to 55 inches)
• Side seam length (hem to underarm): 27.5 to 30.5 cm (10¾ to 12 inches)
• Upper arm circumference: 26.5 to 45.5 cm (10½ to 18 inches)
• Wrist circumference: 20.5 to 24 cm (8 to 9½ inches)
• Sleeve length: 45 to 49.5 cm (17¾ to 19½ inches)
• Yoke depth at centre front: 16.5 to 26.5 cm (6½ to 10¼ inches)

Techniques Used

The Knitting & Gin Cardigan employs contemporary knitting construction methods suitable for beginners. The design features a fitted yoke section that is worked from the top down, allowing for seamless integration of the body and sleeves. This top-down approach enables knitters to try on the garment as it progresses and adjust length easily before binding off. The zero-ease fit requires precise shaping through strategic increases and decreases in the yoke region to create a tailored silhouette.

Stitches Used

While specific stitch patterns are not detailed in the provided pattern information, the beginner-friendly difficulty rating suggests the design utilizes fundamental knitting stitches. The construction method indicates the use of stockinette stitch as the primary fabric, combined with ribbing for the cuffs, hem, and button bands to provide elasticity and structure. The fitted yoke likely incorporates strategic decreases to shape the neckline and shoulders appropriately across all size ranges.

Materials

This pattern is designed for DK weight yarn, a versatile medium-weight yarn that provides excellent stitch definition and drape suitable for a fitted cardigan silhouette. The yarn weight choice allows for detailed shaping while remaining accessible to beginner knitters. Needles appropriate for DK weight yarn (typically US sizes 3-5 or 3.25-3.75 mm) and a set of stitch markers for tracking shaping increases and decreases are essential tools for this project. Buttons for the front closure should be selected based on the finished cardigan dimensions and personal preference.

Design Details

The Knitting & Gin Cardigan is a beginner-level project that combines accessibility with sophisticated shaping. The fitted yoke design creates a flattering garment that follows the natural contours of the body. With 10 size options and comprehensive finished measurements provided, knitters can confidently select the appropriate size and understand exactly how the finished cardigan will fit. This pattern represents independent designer Sue Stratford's approach to creating timeless, wearable knitwear.