Unbroken

Unbroken Cardigan by Anne Hanson

Garment Overview

Unbroken is a casual shawl collared cardigan designed by Anne Hanson and available in ten sizes ranging from XS to L and 1X to 6X. This intermediate-level knitting project features a distinctive chain link motif as its primary design element, complemented by richly ribbed collar and hem details. The cardigan is offered in two body length options, allowing knitters to customize the finished garment to their preference.

Construction Method and Design Features

The Unbroken cardigan is knit from the hem up in portable pieces, making it an accessible project for knitters who prefer working on smaller sections rather than managing a large garment on needles. A key construction advantage is the incorporation of the shaped collar and button bands directly into the garment construction process, which significantly minimizes finishing work compared to traditional cardigan patterns that require separate assembly steps.

Stitch and Texture Details

The chain link motif serves as the primary textural feature throughout the body of the cardigan, creating visual interest and dimension. This stitch pattern is balanced by richly ribbed sections at the collar and hems, which provide structure and help the garment maintain its shape. The ribbed details frame the cardigan and create a polished, finished appearance.

Yarn and Material Recommendations

Unbroken is designed to work beautifully in sport weight yarn, which provides an ideal balance of drape and structure for this casual cardigan style. The pattern performs equally well in cozy, wooly yarns or smooth blended fibers, allowing knitters flexibility in achieving their desired aesthetic and hand-feel. Suggested yarn options include Bare Naked Wools Modern Deco Sport, Finn Dandy 3-Ply Sport, Jacob's Dream Sport, Chebris Sport, Festivus Sport, Elemental Affects Civility Sport, ElsaWool Worsted Spun Cormo, and Maine Spun Sportweight. Any sport weight yarn that knits to the pattern's specified gauge is suitable for this project.

Gauge and Sizing Considerations

Knitters should note that substituting yarn and/or needles may result in overall variation in size, drape, or yardage requirements. Matching the pattern gauge is essential for achieving the intended finished dimensions. Finished sizes begin at 33.5 inches and increase across the size range, with detailed measurements provided for each of the ten available sizes.

Skill Level

Rated as an intermediate knitting project, Unbroken is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle stitch patterns and garment shaping. The portable piece-by-piece construction method makes the project manageable for knitters building their garment-making experience.