Free Pattern: Y2K Earthy Neutrals Striped Cardigan

Free Pattern: Y2K Earthy Neutrals Striped Cardigan

Introduction

Welcome to your next knitting adventure! Dive into the nostalgic Y2K era with this trendy cardigan featuring earthy neutral stripes. This cardigan is perfect for layering and combines retro vibes with modern colorwork techniques. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this pattern will guide you step-by-step to create a beautiful, handmade piece that you'll cherish for years to come.

Materials Needed

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in four earthy neutral colors: olive green, terracotta, sand, and taupe.
• Needles: US size 8 (5mm) knitting needles.
• Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Body

1. Cast on 120 stitches using the olive green yarn. (For sizes medium, large, and extra-large, cast on 130, 140, and 150 stitches respectively.)
2. Work in 2x2 rib (knit 2, purl 2) for 2 inches.
3. Switch to stockinette stitch (knit one row, purl the next) and begin the stripe pattern:
• 6 rows of olive green
• 6 rows of terracotta
• 6 rows of sand
• 6 rows of taupe
4. Repeat the stripe pattern until the piece measures 18 inches (20, 22, 24 inches for larger sizes) from the cast-on edge.
5. Divide for the front and back:
• Bind off 5 stitches at the beginning of the next two rows for armholes (bind off 5 for medium, 6 for large and extra-large).
6. Continue working in the stripe pattern until the armholes measure 8 inches (9, 10, 11 inches for larger sizes).
7. Bind off all stitches.

Sleeves

1. Cast on 40 stitches with olive green yarn (cast on 45, 50, and 55 for larger sizes).
2. Work in 2x2 rib for 2 inches.
3. Switch to stockinette stitch and follow the stripe pattern, increasing 1 stitch at each end every 6th row until you have 60 stitches (65, 70, 75 for larger sizes).
4. Continue until the sleeve measures 18 inches (19, 20, 21 inches for larger sizes).
5. Bind off.

Assembly

1. Sew the shoulder seams together.
2. Set in the sleeves into the armholes.
3. Sew the side seams and sleeve seams together.

Front Bands

1. With taupe yarn, pick up and knit 80 stitches along each front edge (90, 100, 110 for larger sizes).
2. Work in 2x2 rib for 2 inches.
3. Bind off.

Finishing Touches

Weave in all ends to give your cardigan a polished look. Your Y2K Earthy Neutrals Striped Cardigan is now complete! Enjoy wearing your new handmade piece that combines nostalgia with modern style.