Pockets, a hood, A-line shaping, top-down construction, and generous length are all elements we love in a cozy fall cardigan. Throw in colorful Fair Isle patterns using traditional wool yarn with a steek and you have both a knitter-friendly project and a fall wardrobe staple. The Prairie Wind Cardigan is worked in the round from the top down, and the hood is worked from the bottom up in the round; both are steeked open in finishing.

Difficulty Intermediate

Finished Size 35 (38, 41, 44, 47.25, 50.25)“ bust circumference, buttoned. Cardigan shown measures 35”; modeled with 2” of positive ease.


Yarn Universal Yarn Deluxe Worsted (100% wool): #13110 flint (gray-brown; MC), 4 (4, 5, 5, 5, 6) skeins; #71006 white ash (light gray; CC1), 2 (2, 3, 3, 3, 3) skeins; #12174 ginseng (light yellow; CC2), 1 (2, 2, 2, 2, 2) skein(s); #12182 gold spice (dark yellow; CC3), 1 (1, 2, 2, 2, 2) skein(s); #12224 chartreuse olive (green; CC4), 1 (1, 1, 1, 2, 2) skein(s); #12271 heliotrope (purple; CC5), 1 skein.

Needles Sizes 5 (3.75 mm) and 7 (4.5 mm): 16”, 24”, and 32” circular and set of double-pointed. Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge.

Notions Markers; stitch holders; tapestry needle; five 7⁄8” buttons; size D/3 (3.25 mm) crochet hook; sewing needle and thread.


Gauge 21 sts and 22 rnds = 4” in charted patt on larger needle.

Notes This cardigan is worked in the round from the top down with a steek at center front. The hood is worked in the round from the bottom up with a steek.