Sunnyside Cardigan

Sunnyside Cardigan by Hannah Fettig

What is Being Made

The Sunnyside Cardigan is a cheery top-down cardigan designed by Hannah Fettig and knitbot. This intermediate-level knitting project features textured front panels that add visual interest and dimension to the garment. The top-down construction method allows for easy customization and fitting adjustments as you work from the neckline downward.

Craft and Construction Method

This is a knitting project worked using the top-down construction technique. Top-down knitting begins at the neckline and progresses downward, allowing knitters to try on the garment as they work and adjust the length to their preference. This method is particularly useful for cardigans, as it enables you to knit the body and sleeves seamlessly before binding off at the cuffs.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The Sunnyside Cardigan incorporates several key stitches and techniques:

• Half Linen Stitch – Used for the textured front panels, this stitch is worked over an odd number of stitches and creates a distinctive fabric texture through the combination of knit and slipped stitches
• 1x1 Ribbing – A classic ribbed stitch worked over an even number of stitches, alternating knit and purl stitches for elastic, fitted edges
• Yarn Over Increases – Specifically M1R (Make 1 Right) and M1L (Make 1 Left) increases are used to shape the cardigan during construction, creating a total of 10 stitches increased per shaping round
• Slipped Stitches – Stitches are slipped as if to purl with yarn in front (wyif) to create the textured appearance of the Half Linen Stitch
• Stitch Markers – Used throughout to denote pattern repeats and shaping points

Materials and Yarn Weight

The Sunnyside Cardigan is designed to be worked in DK weight yarn, a medium-light yarn weight that creates a drapey, versatile fabric suitable for layering. DK yarn works beautifully with the textured stitches in this pattern, allowing the Half Linen Stitch panels to display their dimensional qualities while maintaining an elegant appearance. Standard knitting needles appropriate for DK yarn are required for this project.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience. The combination of top-down construction, stitch marker management, and textured stitch work requires solid foundational knitting skills and comfort with shaping techniques, but remains accessible to those ready to expand their abilities beyond beginner projects.