"Daniel Cardigan" - Cardigan Knitting Pattern in MillaMia Naturally Soft Merino

Daniel Cardigan Knitting Pattern

What Is Being Made

The Daniel Cardigan is an experienced-level knitting pattern designed as a versatile, relaxed-fit boyfriend-style cardigan for women and an on-trend Fair Isle piece for men. This downloadable PDF pattern from MillaMia offers four size options to fit bust/chest measurements from 87–92 cm (34–36 inches) up to 117–122 cm (46–48 inches), with finished bust measurements ranging from 96 cm (38 inches) to 125 cm (49 inches). The cardigan features a length to shoulder of 65–71 cm (25½–28 inches) depending on size, with sleeve lengths of 46 cm (18 inches) for the woman's version and 50 cm (19¾ inches) for the man's version. The garment is finished with eight buttons, each approximately 12 mm (½ inch) in diameter.

Techniques Used

This advanced knitting pattern employs several sophisticated construction and colorwork techniques that elevate it beyond beginner projects. The cardigan is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for traditional shaping and seaming. The garment is constructed bottom-up, meaning knitting begins at the lower edge and progresses toward the shoulders and neckline. Stranded colorwork, also known as Fair Isle knitting, is incorporated into the design, creating the multicolored pattern that makes this piece visually striking. The finished pieces are seamed together, requiring careful attention to matching stitches and creating neat, professional-looking seams along the side edges and sleeve caps.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch structure is stockinette stitch (abbreviated st st), which forms the smooth, classic V-shaped fabric base of the cardigan. This foundational stitch is worked over the tension of 25 stitches and 34 rows to a 10 cm (4 inch) square, which is essential for achieving proper fit and drape. The stranded colorwork sections introduce patterning that requires managing two colors simultaneously within rows, a technique that demands experience and attention to tension consistency to prevent puckering or loose floats on the reverse side.

Materials and Yarn

The Daniel Cardigan is designed to be worked in MillaMia Naturally Soft Merino, a sport-weight yarn that provides a refined drape and comfortable wear. The pattern requires 15, 17, 19, or 21 balls of 50 g (1¾ oz) depending on which of the four sizes is being made. The main color (M) is Midnight (101), a dark neutral shade that serves as the base for the Fair Isle colorwork. Two balls of Snow (124), a light contrasting color, are used for the stranded pattern sections. Alternative colorway options are provided, including Storm (102), Putty (Grey 104), Claret (121), and additional combinations, allowing knitters to personalize their finished cardigan while maintaining the same pattern structure.

Needles and Tools

Construction requires two pairs of knitting needles in different sizes. A pair of 3 mm (US 2) needles is used for ribbed edgings and cuffs, which create elasticity and a neat finish. A pair of 3.25 mm (US 3) needles is used for the main body and sleeves worked in stockinette stitch and stranded colorwork. The gauge achieved with the 3.25 mm needles is critical: 25 stitches and 34 rows over a 10 cm (4 inch) square in stockinette stitch. Eight buttons, each approximately 12 mm (½ inch) in diameter, are required to complete the cardigan front closure.

Pattern Characteristics

This is an advanced difficulty pattern suitable for experienced knitters who have mastered fundamental techniques and are ready to tackle more complex projects. The combination of bottom-up construction, seaming, and stranded colorwork makes this an ideal project for knitters seeking to refine their skills in color management and garment assembly. The pattern's versatility—designed to be worn as a relaxed boyfriend-style piece for women or as a contemporary Fair Isle cardigan for men—demonstrates thoughtful design that appeals to multiple knitting audiences. The inclusion of multiple size options and alternative colorways provides flexibility for customization while maintaining the integrity of the original design.