Lace Yoke Cardigan

Lace Yoke Cardigan by Sian Brown

What is Being Made

This is a women's cardigan knitting pattern designed by Sian Brown, available in four sizes to fit bust measurements from 88cm (34½ inches) through to 130cm (51 inches). The cardigan features a distinctive lace yoke detail and is constructed using a seamless circular knitting method. The finished garment length ranges from 50cm to 56cm depending on size, with short sleeves measuring between 15 to 16cm.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques that create visual interest and structure:

• Lace construction featuring decorative yarn overs and slip stitches that create openwork patterns in the yoke area
• Circular knitting using circular needles to work seamlessly, reducing finishing work
• Stitch manipulation including slipping stitches over one another to create decorative decreases and texture
• Thumb cast-on method for the initial stitches
• Stockinette stitch as the primary fabric base

Stitches and Abbreviations

The pattern uses standard knitting abbreviations and specialized stitch techniques:

• K (knit) and P (purl) for basic stitches
• YF (yarn forward) and YON (yarn over needle) for creating lace holes
• K1B (knit one back) for twisted stitches
• S2kpo (slip 2 stitches, knit 1, pass slipped stitches over) for decorative decreases
• M1 (make 1) for increases
• SL (slip) for stitch manipulation

Materials and Specifications

The cardigan is designed to be knitted in luxury yarn with specific requirements:

• Yarn: 12 to 15 balls of Alpaca Select 4ply (pure alpaca fiber) in Purple shade 36, depending on size chosen
• Needles: Pair of 2.75mm (US size 2) and 3mm (US size 2) straight knitting needles, plus circular needles in both sizes for seamless construction
• Additional materials: 1 metre of 10mm-wide velvet ribbon for finishing
• Tension: 28 stitches and 36 rows over a 10cm (4 inch) square in stockinette stitch using 3mm needles

Yarn Weight and Fiber Content

This pattern uses 4-ply weight yarn, which is a lightweight fingering to sport weight that creates a delicate, refined fabric. The pure alpaca fiber provides softness, breathability, and a luxurious drape, making this cardigan suitable for layering and elegant wear. The 4-ply weight combined with the lace yoke creates an airy, sophisticated garment.

Pattern Difficulty

Rated as intermediate difficulty, this cardigan requires knitters to be comfortable with lace knitting techniques, circular needle work, and reading complex stitch patterns. The lace yoke involves multiple rows of yarn overs and decreases that create the openwork design, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond basic stockinette stitch projects.