Knitted from the top down, this raglan cardigan combines a subtle texture and a gorgeous yarn
IMKE VON NATHUSIUS
THIS TOP-DOWN cardigan begins with just a few stitches at the back neck, and radiates outward with sections of a simple broken rib stitch pattern and wide columns of stocking stitch forming the graphic raglan shaping. The doubled neckband is knit-as-you-go and the folded hem gives a smooth, professional finish. Imke von Nathusius’ design is worked in The Fibre Co.’s Arranmore Light yarn, which is a heathered, DK-weight blend of cashmere, silk and fine Merino wool.
PATTERN NOTES
All slipped stitches are worked with yarn held in front. Because the two pattern stitches of Body and Front Bands differ in row gauge, short rows are worked throughout the Front Bands (starting at Increase Section I) on every other RS row, so they align properly with the Body. Be sure to remember to work these short rows every other RS row throughout until you have finished working the body.
CONSTRUCTION
Starting at the centre back, the tubular front and neckband is worked to both sides. Stitches are then picked up along the neckband edge for the back and sleeves. From this point, the yoke and body are then worked flat. There are three sections of increases until you have all yoke sts done, and the body and sleeves are then separated to be finished one after the other. The body and sleeves are worked entirely in broken rib pattern, with the exception of wide raglan panels, which are worked in st st. The front bands are worked in a technique which creates a double fabric for a professional look. When stitches are separated for body and sleeves, the raglan panels continue until they meet at the side seam/underarm seam, at which point a smaller panel of st st is worked along the sides of the body down to the hem, as well as along the underarm to the cuff. The sleeve decreases are worked visibly on the outside centre of the sleeves. The cuffs and folded hem are worked in st st.
STITCH PATTERNS
BROKEN RIB
(worked flat - multiple of 2 sts + 1) Row 1 (RS): Knit. Row 2 (WS): *K1, P1; rep from * to last st, K1. Repeat Rows 1-2 for pattern.
BROKEN RIB
(worked in the round - multiple of 2 sts) Rnd 1: Knit. Rnd 2: *K1, P1; rep from * to end. Repeat Rnds 1-2 for pattern.
RIGHT BACK NECK BAND
Using 4mm needles and the long-tail cast-on, cast on 14 sts. Row 1 (WS): *K1, Sl 1; rep from * to end. Row 2 (RS): *K1, Sl 1; rep from * to end. Rep Rows 1-2 another 20 (21:22:23:24:25:26: 27:28) times.
Break yarn, put sts on a spare needle.
LEFT BACK NECK BAND
Turn your work 180° and pick up and knit 14 s
