Air Cardigan

Air Cardigan by SuviKnits

What is Being Made

The Air Cardigan is a long V-neck cardigan designed by Suvi Simola and worked from the top down. This intermediate-level knitting project features a sophisticated construction method that begins with the upper back, progresses through separately worked fronts with V-neck shaping, and concludes with set-in pockets and a button band. The finished garment is a classic cardigan silhouette suitable for layering and everyday wear.

Construction and Techniques

The Air Cardigan employs a top-down construction method, a popular technique in modern knitting that allows for easy fitting adjustments and the ability to try on the garment as it progresses. The pattern begins by working the upper back section first, establishing the foundation for the entire piece.

After the back is complete, stitches are picked up from the cast-on row to create the front pieces, which are then worked separately down to the desired length. During this phase, V-neck shaping is incorporated to create the characteristic neckline. Once the fronts reach the appropriate length, they are joined with the back at the underarms, and the body continues as one piece to the hem.

The garment features set-in pockets with garter stitch construction, adding both functionality and visual interest. Decorative purl rows are worked on the upper back, providing textural detail. The body is finished with ribbing at the hem for a polished edge. A button band is picked up and worked in one piece, with buttonholes integrated into the right front for closure.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch (St st) — the primary stitch used throughout the body of the cardigan
• Garter Stitch — used for the pocket construction and providing textural contrast
• Purl Rows — decorative purl rows on the upper back add visual detail
• Ribbing — used for finishing the hem and button band for elasticity and a refined edge

Materials and Notions

The Air Cardigan is worked in aran weight yarn using larger needles for the stockinette stitch sections. The gauge is 18 stitches and 25 rows in stockinette stitch, which helps determine the final dimensions of the cardigan.

Essential notions for completing this project include regular stitch markers and locking stitch markers (or safety pins as an alternative) for tracking pattern sections and shaping points. Waste yarn is needed for holding stitches during construction, particularly when picking up stitches for the fronts and sleeves. A tapestry needle is required for seaming and weaving in ends. The cardigan is fastened with 6 buttons measuring 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, the Air Cardigan is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle more complex construction methods. The top-down approach, V-neck shaping, and set-in pocket technique require attention to detail and familiarity with picking up stitches and working decreases, making this an excellent project for advancing one's knitting abilities.