Charisse In Rowan Alpaca Sparkle - Downloadable PDF

Charisse Cardigan by Lisa Richardson in Rowan Alpaca Sparkle

What is Being Made

Charisse is a sophisticated cardigan pattern designed by Lisa Richardson and knitted using Rowan Alpaca Sparkle yarn. This garment is suitable for advanced beginners seeking a project with moderate complexity. The cardigan is available in five size options, ranging from chest measurements of 71-86 cm (28-34 in) up to 152-157 cm (60-62 in), making it adaptable for various body types.

Techniques Used

The construction of Charisse employs several key knitting techniques that contribute to its polished appearance. The pattern begins with a garter stitch foundation worked over 4 rows, which creates a stable, textured edge ideal for a cardigan opening. The main body is worked from a charted pattern that repeats over 16 rows, requiring the knitter to read and follow a stitch diagram throughout the project. Shaping is achieved through strategic decreasing at the front slope, with decreases worked at regular intervals (every 4th row and every 6th row) to create a fitted silhouette. Shoulder shaping is incorporated to ensure proper garment fit and structure.

Stitches Used

• Garter Stitch: Used for the initial 4-row foundation, creating a reversible, textured edge
• Charted Pattern Stitch: A 16-row repeating pattern that forms the primary fabric throughout the body and sleeves
• Decreases: Strategic single-stitch decreases at the front slope to shape the cardigan opening and create a fitted neckline

Materials

Charisse is knitted with Rowan Alpaca Sparkle, a luxury yarn available in multiple colorways (the sample shown is worked in Silver 10024). This yarn is supplied in 50-gram balls. The pattern requires two needle sizes: 7mm (US 10½) needles for the initial garter stitch ribbing, and 9mm (US 13) needles for the main fabric. The yarn weight classification is DK (double knitting), a medium-weight yarn that provides excellent stitch definition for charted patterns while remaining lightweight enough for comfortable wear.

Pattern Structure

The left front section begins with casting on between 32 and 52 stitches depending on size selection. After the garter stitch foundation, the knitter transitions to the larger needles and begins working the 16-row charted pattern. The front slope shaping occurs in the latter stages of the pattern, with the number of decrease rows varying by size. This construction method ensures that the charted pattern remains visually balanced across all size options while maintaining proper fit through targeted shaping.