Cardigan Calculator — Yarn for Cardigans Including Button Bands

A cardigan typically needs 10-15% more yarn than a pullover of the same size due to the button bands, front overlap, and neckband. The two front pieces combined are wider than a single front panel because of the overlap at centre front.

Standard button bands are 2-3cm wide (approximately 5-8 stitches in DK weight). Wider bands of 4-5cm look best on chunky cardigans. Button bands are usually worked in a non-curling stitch like seed stitch, garter stitch, or ribbing.

The button band length equals the total front opening length (neck to hem) times two (both sides) plus the neckband length. Multiply by the band width and your yarn consumption per cm². This calculator includes the band estimate automatically.

Picking up stitches along the front edge gives the neatest result and avoids seaming. Pick up approximately 3 stitches for every 4 rows along the front edge. Knit the band in a non-curling stitch. Some knitters prefer to knit bands separately and sew them on.

Measure the button band length and divide by the number of buttons plus 1 (for the space above the top button). Place the bottom button 2-3cm from the hem and the top button at the start of the neckline shaping. Use the Button Spacing Calculator for precise placement.