From This Day Forward

From This Day Forward Cardigan by Ashley Knowlton

Project Overview

From This Day Forward is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Ashley Knowlton. This downloadable PDF pattern offers a classic button-front cardigan suitable for knitters with some experience. The design is available in nine different sizes, ranging from a finished bust of 30 inches up to 54 inches, making it adaptable for various body measurements and fit preferences.

What Is Being Made

This pattern creates a tailored cardigan sweater with a button-front closure. The garment features a structured silhouette with set-in sleeves and is constructed primarily in one piece, which streamlines the knitting process and reduces the number of seams. The cardigan includes applied i-cord detailing, adding a refined finish to the edges. Button bands are incorporated into the design, with placement for 10 to 13 small buttons depending on the finished size.

Size Range and Finished Measurements

The pattern accommodates nine finished bust sizes:

• 30 inches (76 cm)
• 34 inches (86.5 cm)
• 38 inches (96.5 cm)
• 40 inches (101.5 cm)
• 42 inches (106.75 cm)
• 44 inches (111.75 cm)
• 48 inches (122 cm)
• 50 inches (127 cm)
• 54 inches (137 cm)

Knitting Techniques

The cardigan is worked using several key knitting techniques. The garment is constructed back and forth in one piece, which means the body is knitted flat on circular needles rather than in the round, allowing for easier shaping and modification. Set-in sleeves are incorporated, providing a tailored fit typical of traditional cardigan construction. Sleeves are worked using either the magic loop method on a long circular needle or with a set of five double-pointed needles (dpns), giving knitters flexibility in their preferred method for working small circumferences in the round. Applied i-cord is used as a finishing detail, which involves knitting a separate cord and attaching it to the edges for a polished appearance.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 21 stitches and 24 rows per 4 inches (10 centimeters) in the armhole sections. While specific stitch patterns are not detailed in the provided content, the construction method and gauge suggest the cardigan is likely worked in a fundamental stockinette stitch or similar basic knit fabric, which is standard for fitted cardigans and allows the shaping and button bands to be the design focus.

Yarn and Materials

The cardigan requires fingering weight yarn, also known as 4-ply yarn, which produces a refined, drapey fabric suitable for a tailored garment. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 660 yards for the smallest size to 1,400 yards for the largest size. The sample cardigan shown in the pattern is knitted in Posh Elinor, a 100% Superwash Wool yarn that provides durability and easy care. This yarn is available at 400 yards per 100 grams, making it easy to calculate yardage needs.

Needles and Notions

The pattern requires US 6 (4mm) circular needles in multiple lengths to accommodate different sizing stages. Smaller sizes use 24-inch circular needles, while larger sizes require 36-inch or 40-inch needles to accommodate the increased stitch count. A long US 6 (4mm) circular needle for magic loop work or a set of five double-pointed needles (dpns) is needed for sleeve construction. Two additional US 6 (4mm) double-pointed needles are used for knitting the applied i-cord edging. Stitch holders or scrap yarn manage stitches during construction, and multiple stitch markers help track pattern repeats and shaping points. The pattern calls for 10 to 13 small buttons (approximately ½ inch or 13mm in diameter) depending on the finished size, along with a sewing needle and thread for secure button attachment. A tapestry needle is essential for weaving in yarn ends and seaming if needed.

Difficulty Level