Rust & stone cardigan

Rust and Stone Cardigan by Milja Uimonen

What Is Being Made

The Rust and Stone Cardigan is a sophisticated, wearable knit garment designed by Milja Uimonen. This cardigan features a refined construction with long front panels and ribbed, slightly ruffled front bands that create an elegant drape. The design can be worn either open or closed with a pin, offering versatility in styling. The cardigan is available in sizes ranging from 28 inches to 52 inches bust circumference, with yardage requirements varying from approximately 1,050 meters (1,148 yards) for the smallest size to 1,850 meters (2,023 yards) for the largest size.

Construction and Techniques

This cardigan is worked top down in one piece, a construction method that allows for seamless integration of shaping and eliminates the need for seaming. Working from the top down enables knitters to try on the garment as it progresses and adjust the final length to their preference. The body is worked in smooth stockinette stitch, which showcases the beauty of semi-solid or hand-dyed yarn colors. The front bands feature ribbed texture with subtle ruffling, creating visual interest and a refined finish that complements the simplicity of the stockinette body.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch – used for the main body to create a smooth, classic fabric that highlights yarn color and quality
• Ribbed stitch – used for the front bands and likely for cuffs and hem ribbing to provide structure and elasticity

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Rust and Stone Cardigan is designed for fingering/sport weight yarn, also classified as 4-ply weight. This lighter yarn weight creates a refined, drapey fabric suitable for a cardigan that can be layered or worn as a standalone piece. The pattern is shown worked in Fleece Artist Trail Socks yarn in the colorway Pewter, which is a merino and nylon blend (80% merino, 20% nylon) that provides durability and softness. Each skein contains 355 yards (325 meters) and weighs 115 grams. Knitters will need standard knitting needles appropriate for fingering/sport weight yarn to complete this project.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond basic techniques. The top-down construction and seamless one-piece method require understanding of increases and shaping, while the straightforward stockinette and ribbed stitches keep the pattern accessible to those ready to advance their skills.