Cardigan vs Pullover: Construction Differences
A cardigan is a sweater that opens at the front; a pullover is closed. The construction differences between the two affect knitting time, complexity, and the techniques required.
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Cardigan flat construction
Knit the back, two front pieces, and two sleeves separately as flat pieces. Seam at the shoulders and sides. Pick up stitches for the front bands. Sew on buttons.
Cardigan steeked construction
Knit the body in the round as a pullover. Steek the front opening (cut the body open). Pick up stitches for the front bands. Most popular for stranded colourwork cardigans.
In partnership Tools and supplies that make this technique easier.
Cardigan top-down construction
Knit from the neckline downward, working back and forth from the start. Front bands are picked up at the end. The most popular cardigan construction in modern hand-knitting.
Pullover construction
Almost always knit in the round (top-down or bottom-up). No seaming, no steeking, no front bands. Faster than cardigan construction but limits the design options (no front opening, no buttonholes).
Abbreviation reference
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| CO | cast on |
| BO | bind off |
Tips
- Top-down cardigans are the easiest cardigan construction to start with.
- Steek cardigans for stranded colourwork; flat-piece cardigans for tailored fits.
- Pullovers are faster than cardigans by 20–30%.
In depth
Cardigans and pullovers are the two main sweater categories, with significant differences in construction technique and knitting time. Pullovers are faster and simpler; cardigans are more versatile (can be worn open or closed) but require additional work for the front opening and bands.