Refracted Light Fiber Arts
Brith Cardigan Knitting Pattern
products.product.pickup_availability.unavailable
Wave lapping calmly on the beach
Pebbles worn smooth along the coast
The beauty of windswept sand dunes
These are some of the images that inspired this cozy cardigan design. When planning for this pattern began, I knew I wanted to use brioche for a couple of reasons. First, the plump texture traps warmth close to the body for a fabric that will keep you warm all day long. Second, I love the way brioche fabric can be textural and graphic at the same time. The wave motif worked sideways along the hem and echoed down each sleeve was a fun challenge to design, and I wanted a graphic element that captured the beauty of a windswept coastline. This is a sweater that is fun to knit and will keep you warm and cozy all winter long.
Construction
The Brith cardigan is an open-front raglan brioche cardigan worked seamlessly from the top down. After casting-on around the back of the neck, raglan increases are worked simultaneously with v-neck increases to shape the yoke and v-neck opening of the sweater. The body includes optional A-line shaping and a wave hem that is worked sideways starting from the center back around to the front on either side. The sleeves are worked without sleeve decreases for a slightly gathered look around the cuff and finished with a tubular bind-off. Once the body is complete, stitches are picked up along the front and neck opening to knit a generous shawl collar, which is finished with an i-cord bind-off. Finally, the hem is also finished with an applied i-cord.
Sizes
1, 2, 3 (4, 5, 6) 7, 8, 9
Finished Measurements
Bust Circumference - 38, 42, 46 (50, 54, 58) 62, 66, 70 in (95, 103, 115 (125, 135, 145) 155, 165, 175 cm)
Yoke depth - 8, 8.5, 9 (9.5, 10, 10.5) 11, 11.5, 12 in (20, 21, 22.5 (24, 25, 27) 27, 29, 30 cm)
Upper Arm - 12.5, 14, 16 (16, 17.5, 19) 21, 23, 24 in (31, 34, 40 (41, 44, 47) 53, 56, 59 cm)
Recommended Ease
5-7in (12-18cm) positive ease at bust
Gauge
16 sts x 34 rows = 4in (10cm) in brioche rib, worked flat
Yarn Requirements
Sample used
Red Stag Fibre - Estate DK
100% SW Merino (231yds/211m - 100g) Color A (light color) - Aberdeenshire - 4 skeins
Color B (dark color) - Dun Eideann - 3 skeins
To substitute, use
DK or light worsted weight yarn
Color A - 914, 1024, 1165 (1237, 1390, 1514) 1652, 1865, 1968 yds
Color B - 683, 793, 1396 (1006, 1160, 1282) 1421, 1634, 1737 yds
(Note: I try to always make my yardage suggestions generous, but you may need more than the suggested yardage if you choose certain modifications like extra length in the body and/or sleeves.)
Needles
US 5 (3.75mm) 16” and 36” circular needles
US 5 (3.75mm) DPNs
or
size needed to obtain gauge
Notions
12 stitch markers
tapestry needle
blocking supplies
For questions or pattern support, email refractedlightknits@gmail.com
Disclaimer: in an attempt to be size inclusive, I have graded the pattern for people with a bust measurement up to 64in/162cm (potentially larger if worn with less than the suggested positive ease). However, I could not find people to test some of the larger sizes, so sizes 7-9 have not been test knit. If you are interested in testing one of these sizes for me, feel free to get in touch, and I would be happy to discuss testing details with you, including a free copy of the pattern.
Copyright December 2022, all rights reserved.
Timeless Patterns for Nerdy Creatives
My catalogue of designs is a bit eclectic, because I’m inspired by beauty wherever I see it, whether that’s in a tear-jerking story, the earthy glory of a wildflower, or a soaring piece of architecture. But if I’m being totally honest, I’m mostly a big nerd and design a lot of Tolkien-inspired patterns.
My patterns range in difficulty from being great first projects for beginners to providing a challenge for seasoned knitters who want to show off their skills and explore a range of techniques. But whatever the level of difficulty, all my patterns feature layouts optimized for readability, clear instructions, notes on how to modify, and tutorials for special stitches and techniques.
If you’d like to try my most popular pattern for free, sign up for my newsletter. When you subscribe, you’ll also get access to subscriber only discounts and sale on Refracted Light Fiber Arts patterns and yarns.
Features
My goal in every pattern I write is to guide you through a smooth and enjoyable knitting process. Every pattern comes with the following features:
Schematic: Most of my patterns come with a schematic that helps you visualize the shape, constructions, and proportions of the finished object.
Notes on Modification: I want you to be able to make your projects truly your own, so each pattern comes with suggestions and guidance for modifying your project so it can turn out exactly how you want it.
Special Stitches and Techniques: There are written instructions for all special stitches used and descriptions of any special techniques. Some patterns also include photo tutorials and/or links to video tutorials.
Charted + Written Instructions: Whenever a pattern includes a chart (cables, lace, etc.) I always provide both charted and written instructions so you can follow the pattern in whatever way works best for you.
Garment Sizing
I am constantly learning more about sizing and grading, as my goal is to write patterns that are size inclusive. All of my patterns are currently graded over a range of 9 sizes, and most of my garment patterns features schematics and size charts that can help you choose a size for the fit you prefer.
Some of my early garment patterns were written during a time when I still had much to learn about sizing and grading. I have plans to update these older patterns, so if a pattern you like is not currently available, chances are it's getting a much needed overhaul to bring it up to my current standards.
Pattern Support
If you have any questions about a pattern you have purchased from me, please don't hesitate to reach out. I do my best to respond within 2 business days, but response times may be longer during busy seasons, since I am one person trying to run a multifaceted business.
You can send all questions to refractedlightfiberarts@gmail.com
Technique Tutorials
Detailed, step-by-step instructions for special stitches or techniques that walk you through techniques that might be new to you.
Sizes
Graded for nine sizes ranging from a 32"-65" bust.
Size Chart
Gives key measurement for each size, showing the finished dimensions of the garment at key fit points
Schematic
Shows key measurements to help with choosing a size
RLFA patterns help you
Create an Heirloom
While my designs are often inspired by my love for all things Tolkien, the textures and silhouettes follow timeless principles of style and functionality and are derived from classic knitwear that has stood the test of time. While trends come and go, these classic styles will ensure that your handmade projects will continue to be relevant and wearable for years to come.
RLFA Classics
These designs are favorites with knitters the world over. Join the countless people who have use my patterns to create their next favorite knit.
Explore
When you subscribeto my newsletter, you not only get access to exclusive content, subscriber-only discounts, and first dibs on sales and new products, I'll also send you a free copy of my most popular pattern, the Storyteller Cowl.
