The Ember Drift Cocoon Cardigan: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Textured, Asymmetrical Wrapper

Wrap Yourself in Texture: The Ember Drift Cocoon Cardigan

Imagine stepping into a cloud of warmth, where every stitch feels like a gentle hug. That's the magic of the Ember Drift Cocoon Cardigan. This free knitting pattern invites you to create a modern, oversized layer that's as much a piece of art as it is a cozy essential. With its rich, bumpy seed stitch and a dramatic asymmetrical drape, this cardigan is designed to be a statement piece—a wearable blanket that adds texture and warmth to any outfit. Whether you're curled up by the fire or heading out for a crisp autumn walk, this cardigan will become your new favorite companion.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather these essentials to ensure a smooth and enjoyable knitting experience.

• Yarn: Worsted weight (CYC #4) yarn, approximately 1200-1400 yards (depending on size). The sample is shown in a heathered rust and charcoal grey, but any worsted weight yarn will work beautifully.
• Needles: US Size 9 (5.5 mm) circular knitting needles with a 32-inch or longer cable for the main body. Also, a US Size 9 straight needle for the collar.
• Notions: Stitch holders or waste yarn, tapestry needle for weaving in ends, scissors, and a tape measure.
• Gauge: 16 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in seed stitch, after blocking. Achieving the correct gauge is crucial for the perfect fit and drape.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create your Ember Drift Cocoon Cardigan. This pattern is worked flat in one piece from side to side, creating a seamless cocoon shape. The asymmetrical front is achieved through short rows, giving it that unique, sculptural look.

Sizes & Fit

This pattern is written for sizes S/M (M/L, L/XL). The finished bust measurements are 48 (54, 60) inches. The oversized design means it will drape beautifully on a range of body types.

Abbreviations

• CO: Cast on
• K: Knit
• P: Purl
• St(s): Stitch(es)
• RS: Right side
• WS: Wrong side
• Rep: Repeat
• BO: Bind off
• M1: Make one stitch (increase)
• K2tog: Knit two stitches together (decrease)
• SSK: Slip, slip, knit (decrease)

Pattern Notes

• The cardigan is worked flat in one piece from left sleeve to right sleeve.
• The asymmetrical front is created by working short rows.
• Seed Stitch Pattern (over an even number of stitches):
  • Row 1 (RS): *K1, P1; repeat from * to end.
  • Row 2 (WS): *P1, K1; repeat from * to end.
  • Repeat these two rows for the entire pattern.

Main Body (Worked from Left Sleeve to Right Sleeve)

1. Cast On: CO 80 (88, 96) stitches.
2. Left Sleeve: Work in seed stitch for 6 inches, ending with a WS row.
3. Increase for Body:
   • Next Row (RS): K1, M1, work in seed stitch to last stitch, M1, K1. (82, 90, 98 stitches)
   • Work 5 rows even in seed stitch.
   • Repeat the increase row every 6 rows 4 more times. (90, 98, 106 stitches)
4. Work Even: Continue in seed stitch without further increases until the piece measures 18 (20, 22) inches from the CO edge, ending with a WS row.

Shape Back Neck

1. Next Row (RS): Work in seed stitch across 45 (49, 53) stitches, BO 10 stitches, work in seed stitch across the remaining 35 (39, 43) stitches.
2. Work Left Back: Work even on the 35 (39, 43) stitches for 4 inches, ending with a WS row. Place these stitches on a holder.
3. Work Right Back: Work even on the 45 (49, 53) stitches for 4 inches, ending with a WS row. Place these stitches on a holder.

Join Shoulders

1. Next Row (RS): With RS facing, work across the 45 (49, 53) stitches of the right back, CO 10 stitches, then work across the 35 (39, 43) stitches of the left back. (90, 98, 106 stitches)

Decrease for Body

1. Work Even: Work in seed stitch for 2 inches.
2. Decrease Row (RS): K1, K2tog, work in seed stitch to last 3 stitches, SSK, K1. (88, 96, 104 stitches)
3. Work 5 rows even in seed stitch.
4. Repeat the decrease row every 6 rows 4 more times. (80, 88, 96 stitches)
5. Work Even: Continue in seed stitch without further decreases until the piece measures 18 (20, 22) inches from the shoulder join, ending with a WS row.

Right Sleeve

1. Work Even: Work in seed stitch for 6 inches.
2. Bind Off: BO all stitches loosely in pattern.

Collar

1. Pick Up Stitches: With RS facing, using the straight needle, pick up and knit 90 (100, 110) stitches evenly around the entire neck opening (including the back neck).
2. Work Collar: Work in seed stitch for 4 inches.
3. Bind Off: BO all stitches loosely in pattern.

Finishing

1. Weave in Ends: Use a tapestry needle to weave in all loose ends securely.
2. Block: Block the cardigan to the specified measurements. This will help the seed stitch relax and the asymmetrical drape to fall naturally.
3. Optional: Add a single large button or a shawl pin at the shoulder to secure the drape and add a touch of personality.

Your Ember Drift Cocoon Cardigan is now complete! Enjoy the cozy, sculptural warmth and the unique, handcrafted texture that only seed stitch can provide. This piece is designed to be a timeless addition to your wardrobe, perfect for layering and making a statement.