How to Knit Raglan Cardigan

Knitting a raglan cardigan is a rewarding project that combines timeless style with personal craftsmanship. This type of cardigan is characterized by its distinctive sleeve style, where the sleeve stitches extend in one piece to the collar, creating a seamless look that is both comfortable and elegant. Perfect for beginners and seasoned knitters alike, the raglan design is versatile and can be customized with various patterns, colors, and yarn types.

In this guide on how to knit raglan cardigan, we’ll walk you through the steps to create a cozy, custom-fitted raglan cardigan that you can wear year-round or gift to someone special.

What is a Raglan Cardigan?

A raglan cardigan is a type of sweater or jacket that has diagonal seams running from the underarms to the neckline, creating a triangular-shaped armhole. This design allows for flexibility and movement in the shoulders, making it comfortable to wear while also providing a flattering fit. The word “raglan” comes from Lord Raglan, an English soldier who lost his arm in the Battle of Waterloo and required a jacket with this specific sleeve style to accommodate his injury.

The Enduring Appeal of Raglan Cardigans in Fashion and Comfort

Raglan cardigans have been a staple in fashion for decades, and for good reason. Not only do they offer a classic, timeless look that never goes out of style, but their unique construction also provides comfort like no other type of sweater. The seamless design of raglan sleeves allows for freedom of movement and eliminates the bulkiness that can sometimes come with traditional set-in sleeves. Plus, the shaping of the raglan sleeves creates a flattering silhouette that looks great on everyone.

Benefits of Knitting a Raglan Cardigan as a Handmade Wardrobe Staple

Knitting a raglan cardigan as part of your handmade wardrobe offers numerous benefits, making it a must-try project for any knitter. Firstly, by choosing the pattern, yarn type, and color scheme, you have total control over the end result, creating a truly unique piece that reflects your personal style. Additionally, hand-knit garments are often higher quality than store-bought ones, ensuring durability and longevity in your wardrobe.

Furthermore, knitting is a great way to destress and relax, making it a therapeutic activity that can be enjoyed by anyone. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of completing a handmade item that you can wear with pride for years to come.

Selecting Yarn and Supplies

When selecting yarn for your raglan cardigan, it’s essential to choose a fiber and weight that will provide both comfort and structure. Wool is always a popular choice due to its warmth, durability, and ability to hold shape well. However, there are many other options available such as cotton, alpaca, or blends of different fibers.

In terms of weight, a worsted weight yarn is recommended for beginners, as it’s easier to work with and creates a medium-weight finished product. However, if you want a lighter or heavier cardigan, you can adjust the weight of your yarn accordingly.

Other supplies you will need include knitting needles in the size recommended by your chosen pattern, stitch markers, scissors, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends.

Choosing a Raglan Cardigan Design

There are endless possibilities when it comes to choosing a design for your raglan cardigan. You can opt for a classic, timeless look with a simple stockinette stitch or add some texture and interest with cables or lace patterns. There are also various lengths, collar types, and closure options (buttons, zippers, etc.) to consider.

To help you select the perfect design, here are some factors to keep in mind:

• Your Personal Style and Preferences
• The Season You Will Be Wearing the Cardigan (Lighter Weight for Spring/summer, Heavier Weight for Fall/winter)
• The Level of Difficulty of the Pattern (Beginner-friendly or Advanced)
• The Yardage and Yarn Requirements

Once you have decided on a specific design, make sure to carefully read the pattern instructions and gather all necessary materials before starting your project.

11 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Knit Raglan Cardigan

Step 1:  Cast on Stitches

Using the long-tail cast-on method, cast on the required number of stitches as stated in your chosen pattern. Make sure to leave a long tail for weaving in later. Otherwise, you can use your preferred cast-on method. You will need to cast on stitches for the back, two front panels, and sleeves. You can also use stitch markers to divide the stitches into sections for each part of the cardigan. It’s important to have an equal number of stitches for each section.

Step 2: Knit the Collar

Using the knitting technique of your choice, knit the number of rows specified in your pattern for the collar. You can choose to keep it simple with a basic garter stitch or add some texture with a ribbed or seed stitch. You can also adjust the width of the collar according to your personal preference. It’s recommended to knit the collar using a smaller needle size than the body of the cardigan to create a snugger fit.

Step 3: Start Raglan Shaping

Once the collar is complete, it’s time to start shaping the raglan sleeves. This involves decreasing stitches on either side of each stitch marker at specific intervals. The number of stitches decreased will vary depending on your chosen pattern and size. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and use stitch markers to keep track of your progress. Otherwise, you may end up with uneven sleeves. The raglan shaping continues until the desired number of stitches is reached for each section.

Step 4: Work Raglan Increases for Sleeve Shaping

Once you have reached the desired number of stitches for each sleeve section, it’s time to start shaping them by increasing stitches every other row. This will create a bell shape for the sleeves and allow for more freedom of movement. The number of increases will vary depending on your chosen pattern. Make sure to continue using stitch markers to keep track of your progress. Otherwise, you may end up with uneven sleeves.

Step 5: Work Even Until Desired Length is Reached

After completing the raglan shaping and sleeve increases, continue knitting even rows until the body of the cardigan reaches your desired length. This may involve adding some waist or bust shaping if your chosen pattern includes it. It’s important to try on your cardigan as you go to ensure a proper fit. But keep in mind that the fabric will stretch slightly after blocking, so don’t make it too tight. It’s also a good idea to periodically check your row gauge to make sure you are on track.

Step 6: Knit Sleeves in the Round

Once the body of your cardigan is complete, it’s time to work on the sleeves. To save time and avoid seaming later, you can choose to knit them in the round using double-pointed needles or the magic loop technique. If you prefer to knit flat, make sure to leave a long tail for seaming later. You will need to knit the sleeves until they reach your desired length, with some ribbing at the cuffs. It’s recommended to try on the sleeves as you go and adjust the length if needed. The sleeves should be slightly longer than your desired length since they may shorten after blocking.

Step 7: Shape Sleeve Caps

Once the desired length is reached, it’s time to start shaping the sleeve caps. This involves decreasing stitches at specific intervals to create a smooth curve. The number of decreases will vary depending on your chosen pattern and size. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and use stitch markers to keep track of your progress. Otherwise, you may end up with uneven sleeves. If you knit the sleeves in the round, you can continue using the magic loop technique or switch to double-pointed needles as needed. If you knit them flat, make sure to keep the sleeves closed afterward.

Step 8: Join Sleeves to Body

After shaping the sleeve caps, it’s time to join them to the body of the cardigan. This can be done by either knitting them together with the body or seaming them later using a tapestry needle. If you choose to knit them together, make sure to carefully follow the instructions in your chosen pattern and use stitch markers as needed. It’s important to maintain the same number of stitches for each section to create an even join. You can also add some waist or bust shaping if needed while knitting the sleeves to the body. But make sure to try on the cardigan as you go to ensure a proper fit.

Step 9: Create Buttonholes (If Applicable) and Add Buttons/Closure

If your chosen design includes a button or zipper closure, it’s time to create the necessary buttonholes. This can be done by simply binding off stitches in the desired location and then casting them back on in the next row. Make sure to follow your pattern instructions for the correct spacing of the buttonholes. Once they are created, you can sew on your buttons or attach a zipper as desired. It’s recommended to try on the cardigan and adjust the placement of the closures if needed. You can also choose to add a belt or ties for a different closure option.

Step 10: Finish with Ribbing or Desired Hemline

To give your cardigan a polished look, it’s recommended to finish the edges with some ribbing or a desired hemline. This can be done at the collar, cuffs, and bottom of the cardigan using the same knitting technique as before. You can also choose to add some decorative edging for a unique touch. Make sure to try on the cardigan and adjust the length of these edges if needed. Otherwise, you may end up with an uneven or ill-fitting finish. Once complete, weave in any remaining ends and block your cardigan for a professional look.

Step 11: Weave in the End and Block Your Cardigan

To give your cardigan a polished look, it’s important to weave in any remaining ends from changing colors or attaching the closures. This can be done by threading the yarn onto a tapestry needle and weaving it through the stitches on the back of your work. Make sure to trim any excess yarn after weaving in the ends. Once complete, wet block your cardigan by gently washing it and laying it flat to dry. This will help even out any stitches and give your cardigan a professional finish. Congratulations, you have now completed your knitted cardigan!

Following these steps on how to knit raglan cardigan will help you create a beautiful and snug cardigan that is perfect for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to add your own personal touches, such as different colors or stitch patterns, to make it truly unique. And remember, knitting should be enjoyable, so take breaks when needed and don’t get discouraged if you make a mistake. Keep practicing and soon you’ll have a whole wardrobe of handmade knitted garments. Happy knitting! 

Tips for Success

• Take Your Time and Read the Pattern Instructions Carefully Before Starting.
• Use Stitch Markers to Help With Tracking Increases and Decreases in the Raglan Shaping.
• Make Sure to Check Your Gauge and Adjust Needle Size if Necessary to Achieve an Accurate Fit.
• Weave in Ends as You Go, Rather Than Waiting Until the End of the Project.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Make Alterations or Adjustments to the Pattern to Fit Your Personal Preferences and Body Shape.
• Enjoy the Process and Have Fun With Your Unique Creation!

Care and Maintenance of Knitted Cardigans

It’s important to take proper care of your handmade raglan cardigan to ensure it lasts for years to come. Here are some tips:

• Follow the Washing and Drying Instructions Provided by the Yarn Manufacturer.
• Handwash Your Cardigan in Cold Water with Gentle Detergent.
• Lay Flat to Dry, Avoid Hanging or Wringing Out the Garment.
• Store Your Cardigan Flat or Folded, Not Hung, to Maintain Its Shape.
• If Needed, Gently Steam or Iron Your Cardigan on the Appropriate Setting for the Fiber Type. 
• Make Sure to Mend Any Holes or Tears Promptly to Prevent Further Damage.
• With Proper Care, Your Knitted Cardigan Will Last for Many Years and Become a Treasured Piece in Your Wardrobe.  Keep it clean, cozy, and stylish! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Should I Knit the Sleeves Separately or in the Round?

A: It’s a personal preference, but knitting them in the round can save time and avoid seams. You can also use circular needles for the body and switch to double-pointed needles for the sleeves if needed. It’s important to follow your chosen pattern instructions for the best fit. 

Q: How Do I Add a Zipper Instead of Buttons?

A: You can create a zipper placket by knitting two separate panels and seaming them to the front edges of the cardigan. Then, sew on the zipper using a tapestry needle or sewing machine with appropriate thread. Make sure to follow your chosen pattern instructions for the correct measurements and placement. 

Q: Can I Make a Raglan Cardigan with Different Yarn Weights?

A: Yes, you can use any weight of yarn for your raglan cardigan. Keep in mind that using thicker yarn will result in a bulkier and warmer garment, while thinner yarn will create a lighter and more delicate finished piece. Adjust your needle size accordingly to achieve the desired gauge. 

Q: Can I Knit a Raglan Cardigan without Following a Pattern?

A: It’s possible to knit a raglan cardigan without following a pattern, but it may be more challenging for beginners. You will need to know how to increase and decrease stitches evenly and calculate the shaping for each section of the cardigan. It’s recommended to follow a pattern, at least for your first few attempts, to get a feel for the construction and techniques involved.

Q: Where Can I Find Patterns for Raglan Cardigans?

A: There are many online resources available for finding raglan cardigan patterns, including pattern databases, yarn company websites, and independent designer websites. You can also find patterns in knitting magazines or books from your local yarn store or library.

Don’t be afraid to ask fellow knitters for pattern recommendations and browse different options until you find one that suits your style and skill level. Happy knitting!  Keep creating and wearing handmade garments with pride!  Your best is yet to come!

Conclusion

With patience, creativity, and a bit of practice, knitting a raglan cardigan can be a gratifying journey toward creating a unique piece of clothing. Whether you’re making it for yourself or as a heartfelt gift, the skills you’ve developed along this process will serve you for a lifetime of knitting projects.

Enjoy the comfort and pride that comes with wearing something made with your own hands, and remember, each stitch is a testament to your dedication and love for the craft. Thanks for reading this article on how to knit raglan cardigan/