The Scarlet Cardigan is a beautifully detailed V-neck cardigan worked from the top down. You begin by shaping the back yoke with short rows, then work a neat i-cord edge along the cast-on. Stitches for each shoulder are picked up from this i-cord, and the shaping continues with increases along the V-neck.
Once the fronts and back yoke join, the body is worked flat on a circular needle, and sleeves are picked up and worked in the round. Raised knit columns run down the back, along each side seam, and underneath both sleeves for a crisp, tailored look. The cardigan is finished with a double-knit front placket that sits flat and firm.
This is a more technical knit — but a deeply satisfying one if you love structure, detail, and a polished finish.
Sizing & Fit
Designed with generous positive ease:
≈ 25 cm in smaller sizes, gradually reducing through larger sizes for a balanced silhouette.
Designed to fit bust:
75–80 (80–85) 85–90 (90–95)
95–100 (100–110) 110–120 (120–130) 130–140 (140–150) cm
Finished bust circumference:
105 (108) 115 (120) 125 (132) 143 (150) 157 (167) cm
Length (mid back, excluding neckband):
50 (51) 53 (56) 58 (60) 62 (66) 68 (70) cm
If you’re between sizes or prefer a closer fit, you can size down thanks to the generous ease.
Yarn Type Needed
The Scarlet Cardigan is designed for a DK / 8-ply wool with a smooth, round structure to highlight the raised knit lines and keep the fabric crisp.
Look for:
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DK wool with good stitch definition
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A yarn that meets the gauge: 23 sts × 36 rows = 10 cm on 3 mm
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A fibre that holds its shape well for buttoned garments
If you'd like help selecting the best yarn for drape, warmth, and structure, message us — or pop into The Wool Shop in Rangiora and we’ll guide you.
Approximate Meterage Required
Based on standard DK/8-ply metreage (≈ 105–115 m per 50 g):
600 (650) 700 (700) 750 (750) 800 (850) 900 (950) g
≈ 1,260 (1,365) 1,470 (1,470) 1,575 (1,575) 1,680 (1,785) 1,890 (1,995) metres
If your chosen yarn differs in metreage, we can help you adjust quantities.
Needles
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3 mm circular needles — 40 / 60 / 80 / 100 cm
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2.5 mm circular needles — 40 / 80 cm
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2.5 mm and 3 mm DPNs (or Magic Loop)
Gauge
23 stitches × 36 rows = 10 × 10 cm
in stockinette stitch on 3 mm needles, after washing and blocking.
This gauge is essential for landing the correct fit — especially with the built-in structure and raised lines.
Notions
Difficulty
★★★★★ – Advanced
A beautiful challenge for knitters who enjoy shaping, finishing techniques, and structural detail.
What You’re Getting
A printed knitting pattern only, ready to slip into your project bag.
(No digital PDF is included.)
