Knot Stitch Cardigan

Knot Stitch Cardigan by Sian Brown

What is Being Made

The Knot Stitch Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Sian Brown. This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for creating a fitted button-front cardigan available in eight size options, ranging from bust measurements of 81cm (32 inches) to 117cm (46 inches). The finished cardigan lengths range from 54cm to 61cm (21¼ to 24 inches), making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various body types and proportions.

Techniques Used

This knitting pattern employs several fundamental and intermediate techniques. The construction begins with a ribbed cuff worked on smaller needles to create elasticity and structure at the lower edge. The pattern uses increases and decreases to shape the garment, including skpo (slip one, knit one, pass slipped stitch over) for left-leaning decreases and m1 (make one) for increases. The signature feature of this cardigan is the knot stitch, a decorative technique created by working three stitches together in a specific sequence: purl three together while leaving stitches on the left needle, then knit the same three stitches together, followed by purling them together again before slipping them off the needle. This creates a textured, dimensional knot effect throughout the fabric. The pattern also incorporates yarn round needle (yrn) for creating openwork or decorative elements.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (k) – the fundamental stitch forming the base fabric
• Purl stitch (p) – used for texture and ribbing
• Knot stitch – the signature decorative stitch combining purl, knit, and purl operations on the same three stitches
• Stockinette stitch (st st) – smooth fabric created by alternating knit and purl rows
• Ribbing – elastic textured pattern created by alternating knit and purl stitches in columns
• Skpo (slip, knit, pass over) – a left-leaning decrease
• Make one (m1) – an increase method for shaping
• Yarn round needle (yrn) – creates decorative holes or lace effects

Materials and Tools

The Knot Stitch Cardigan is worked in Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino in the shade Lilac 33, a luxurious blend yarn that provides softness and drape. The pattern requires 8 to 11 balls of 50g weight depending on the size selected, with larger sizes requiring more yardage. Knitters will need two pairs of knitting needles: 3mm (US size 2) needles for the ribbed edgings and 3.25mm (US size 3) needles for the main fabric. The tension is set at 25 stitches and 34 rows over 10cm (4 inches) in stockinette stitch using the 3.25mm needles, which is essential to achieve the correct finished measurements. The pattern also calls for nine small buttons for the front closure, completing the cardigan's functional and decorative elements.