7 Gauge Ribbed Knit Cardigan

The concept behind this piece is "a stylish cardigan with exceptional comfort." At first glance, it may seem like a simple design, but every detail, from the materials to the finishing touches, has been meticulously crafted.

When it comes to cardigans, many people may think of them as "seasonal" items. However, the 7G Ribbed Knit Cardigan was designed to be a versatile piece that can be worn year-round.

The fabric is a cotton and wool blend that combines both a "warm feel" and a "pleasantly dry touch." It strikes a perfect balance, offering just the right amount of seasonal neutrality.

On warmer days, pair it with a button-down shirt or a cotton T-shirt. On colder days, layer it over a wool sweater. This cardigan allows you to enjoy a wide range of styling options regardless of the season.

Lightness and Dimension Achieved Through Ribbed Knitting

While wool is naturally light and fluffy, cotton tends to add structure, which can make fabrics heavier. To address this, we opted for ribbed knitting (also known as fisherman’s rib). Unlike regular jersey knitting (used in classics like Kamakura Shirts' 12G crew neck or FF30G cardigans), ribbed knitting uses less densely packed yarn, resulting in a fabric that feels airy and lightweight.

We also paid special attention to the yarn. For this piece, we used six strands twisted into a single thread. While it’s a bit technical, this process enhances the yarn’s strength and elasticity. By knitting this specialized yarn in a 7-gauge stitch, we created a cardigan with a soft, dimensional texture that resists losing its shape while maintaining a lightweight and comfortable feel.

A Sophisticated Finish Beyond "Traditional"

Although cardigans are a staple in wardrobes, they often carry a somewhat old-fashioned or overly traditional impression.

To achieve a more stylish look, we opted for welt pockets instead of the typical patch pockets. This involved cutting into the fabric and attaching separately knitted pockets from behind—a meticulous process that creates a sleeker silhouette around the waist. This detail was inspired by a vintage USA-made cardigan from my personal collection. I've always wanted to use this pocket design! (laughs)

Additionally, we reduced the number of front buttons to just four instead of the usual amount, lending the cardigan a refined, jacket-like appearance.

The chest and sleeves are designed with just the right amount of room, while the length is set slightly shorter. This creates a relaxed yet compact silhouette, allowing you to wear it with an air of sophistication without appearing overly casual. Pair it with a shirt for an authentic look that’s perfect for outings like dining at a restaurant. Alternatively, combine it with a crew neck or T-shirt for a casual stroll around the neighborhood.

The cardigan also layers neatly under a coat and pairs beautifully with tailored slacks or denim, making it highly versatile. At its core, this is still a cardigan—so there’s no need to overthink it. Just enjoy wearing it with ease and confidence!