Little Pip Cardigan

Little Pip Cardigan by Suzy Rai

Garment Overview

The Little Pip Cardigan is a neatly fitted cardigan design by independent designer Suzy Rai, inspired by the tailored aesthetic of a riding jacket. This knitted cardigan features a nipped-in waist silhouette paired with a simple half collar and moss stitch detailing, making it an ideal soft and informal layering piece for spring wear. The design combines structured shaping with accessible construction, suitable for knitters with intermediate-level skills.

Craft and Techniques

This is a knitting project worked primarily in stocking stitch (also abbreviated as STST), which creates the classic smooth, V-patterned fabric commonly used in fitted garments. The cardigan incorporates moss stitch detailing, a textured stitch pattern that adds visual interest and structure to specific areas of the design. Shaping techniques include increases to create the fitted waist and tailored silhouette characteristic of a riding jacket-inspired cardigan.

Stitches and Construction Details

• Stocking Stitch (STST): The primary stitch throughout the garment, worked by knitting on the right side and purling on the wrong side to create the smooth, flat fabric base
• Moss Stitch: Used as decorative detailing on the half collar and other accent areas to add texture and visual definition
• Increases (INC): Employed to shape the waist and create the fitted silhouette

Materials and Gauge

The Little Pip Cardigan is designed to be knitted in DK weight yarn, specifically Rowan Hand Knit Cotton, which provides a lightweight, breathable fabric ideal for spring layering. The yarn is easy to care for and wash, making this cardigan practical for regular wear.

Gauge (Tension): 21 stitches over 30 rows in stocking stitch using 4–4.5mm needles produces a 10cm square. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit across all sizes.

Needles and Notions

• Needles: 4mm or 4.5mm needles, selected based on your individual gauge and tension
• Cable needle: Required for any cable techniques in the pattern
• Buttons: Six 1cm diameter buttons for the front closure

Yarn Requirements by Size

• Size S (Small): 11 x 50g balls of Rowan Hand Knit Cotton
• Size M (Medium): 12 x 50g balls of Rowan Hand Knit Cotton
• Size L (Large): 15 x 50g balls of Rowan Hand Knit Cotton

Finished Measurements

Size S: Bust 44cm, Waist 39cm, Hem 43cm, Length from shoulder to hem 51cm, Sleeve length 53cm

Size M: Bust 48cm, Waist 41cm, Hem 47cm, Length from shoulder to hem 53cm, Sleeve length 53cm

Size L: Measurements follow the established sizing progression for a tailored fit

Design Features

The Little Pip Cardigan combines classic tailoring elements with accessible knitting techniques. The nipped-in waist creates a flattering, structured silhouette, while the simple half collar provides a refined neckline finish. The inclusion of moss stitch detailing adds textural contrast and visual interest without requiring advanced colorwork or complex stitch patterns. This intermediate-level design is suitable for knitters who have mastered basic shaping techniques and are ready to work with fitted garment construction.