Retro Sunset Striped Cardigan Free Pattern

Introduction

Embrace the warmth of a vintage sunset with this stunning Retro Sunset Striped Cardigan. This pattern combines classic retro vibes with modern colorwork techniques to create a truly unique piece that will keep you cozy and stylish. Perfect for beginners, this cardigan features bold horizontal stripes in warm sunset tones, making it an eye-catching addition to your wardrobe.

Materials Needed

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in warm sunset tones: burnt orange, deep red, golden yellow, and soft peach.
• Needles: US 8 (5mm) knitting needles.
• Other: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Back

1. Cast on 90 stitches using burnt orange yarn.
2. Work in 2x2 ribbing for 2 inches (K2, P2 across the row).
3. Switch to stockinette stitch (knit every row) and begin the colorwork stripe pattern:
• Rows 1-10: Knit with burnt orange.
• Rows 11-20: Knit with deep red.
• Rows 21-30: Knit with golden yellow.
• Rows 31-40: Knit with soft peach.
4. Repeat the colorwork pattern until the piece measures 24 inches from the cast-on edge.
5. Bind off all stitches.

Front (Make 2)

1. Cast on 45 stitches using burnt orange yarn.
2. Work in 2x2 ribbing for 2 inches.
3. Switch to stockinette stitch and follow the same colorwork stripe pattern as the back.
4. When the piece measures 20 inches, begin shaping the neckline:
• Bind off 5 stitches at the beginning of the next row.
• Decrease 1 stitch at the neckline edge every other row for a total of 5 times.
5. Continue until the piece measures 24 inches. Bind off.

Sleeves (Make 2)

1. Cast on 50 stitches using burnt orange yarn.
2. Work in 2x2 ribbing for 2 inches.
3. Switch to stockinette stitch and follow the colorwork stripe pattern.
4. Increase 1 stitch at each end of every 6th row until there are 70 stitches.
5. Continue until the sleeve measures 18 inches. Bind off.

Assembly

1. Block all pieces to the specified measurements to ensure proper size and shape.
2. Sew the shoulder seams together.
3. Set in the sleeves and sew the side seams.
4. Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle.
5. Add buttons if desired, spacing them evenly along the front opening for a customizable fit.

Now you have your very own Retro Sunset Striped Cardigan! Enjoy the process of knitting and wearing this beautiful piece that embodies the warmth of a sunset.