Dutch

Dutch Cardigan by Andrea Rangel

What is Being Made

The Dutch is an advanced-level knitted cardigan designed by Andrea Rangel, available as a downloadable PDF pattern. This garment is engineered for an oversized fit, with finished bust circumferences ranging from 43 inches (109 cm) to 73.75 inches (187.5 cm) across eight size options. The cardigan is intended to be worn with 12 to 14 inches (30.5 to 35.5 cm) of positive ease at the bust, creating a relaxed, contemporary silhouette. The sample shown features a 43-inch (109 cm) bust measurement with 13 inches (33 cm) of ease.

Construction Techniques

The Dutch cardigan employs a sophisticated multi-directional knitting approach that combines circular and flat knitting methods. The cardigan body is worked in the round from the bottom up to the armholes, establishing an efficient construction method that minimizes seaming. Once the armholes are reached, the yoke transitions to working back and forth in rows, allowing for shaping and design development in the upper garment.

The front opening is created using a steek technique, a traditional method where a column of stitches is cut to separate the front panels and create the cardigan opening. This advanced technique requires precision and confidence but allows for seamless integration of the front shaping.

Sleeves are worked independently in the round and are subsequently sewn into the armholes using mattress stitch, a nearly invisible seaming method that creates a professional finish. Shoulders are joined using the three-needle bind-off technique, which creates a strong, flexible seam ideal for shoulder construction. Facings are picked up from the finished edges and knit last, providing a polished, refined edge around the front opening and neckline.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Dutch cardigan features stranded colorwork as a primary design element. Stranded colorwork, also called Fair Isle knitting, involves carrying yarn colors across the back of the work to create intricate, multi-colored patterns on the fabric surface. This technique requires careful tension management, as many knitters naturally work more tightly in stranded colorwork than in plain Stockinette stitch.

The pattern is worked primarily in Stockinette stitch, the foundational knit stitch that creates the smooth, flat fabric characteristic of modern knitwear. Sleeve cuffs offer styling flexibility, as they can be folded up or left unfolded according to the wearer's preference.

Materials and Gauge Considerations

While specific yarn weight and yardage are not detailed in the pattern notes provided, the Dutch cardigan accommodates stranded colorwork and requires careful gauge swatching. Knitters are strongly advised to swatch in both the stranded color patterns and plain Stockinette stitch to accurately determine gauge, as tension differences between these techniques can significantly impact finished measurements.

A larger needle size is recommended for the stranded colorwork sections compared to plain Stockinette stitch sections, as the colorwork technique naturally produces tighter fabric. This needle adjustment ensures that the colorwork sections match the intended gauge and drape of the plain knit areas, preventing puckering or distortion in the finished garment.

Skill Level

The Dutch cardigan is classified as an advanced knitting project, suitable for experienced knitters comfortable with circular knitting, steek cutting, stranded colorwork, mattress stitch seaming, three-needle bind-off, and picking up stitches. The combination of techniques and the precision required for successful execution makes this pattern ideal for knitters seeking to expand their technical skills.