I believe that even your closet staples should never be boring. So here is my take on a simple cardigan that fills a functional gap in my wardrobe, but is far from being basic!

Classic shaping for a well-fitting result was a given. The lace panels in the front and wider back lace panel are signature SweaterBabe (I must have lace and/or cables or I’m not a happy camper, er. . knitter!).

The longer length is in line with current trends, but also makes for a flattering, lean look and will work well with my longer tops and skinnier jeans. Slim, full-length sleeves keep it all very sleek, and the longer ribbed cuffs are versatile – they can be folded up to bracelet length or left long for warmth. And of course it's top-down, knit up in a soft yarn (cashmere blend!), and made in this season's neutral color – grey!

For the OPTIONAL Top-Down Cardigan Techniques PDF Download, please visit this page. Written instructions are included in this pattern, but the OPTIONAL download may be helpful to some.

Finished Knit Bust Measurements: 32 ¾ (37 ¼, 41 ¾, 45 ¼, 49 ¾, 53 ¼)" [83 (94.5, 106, 115, 126.5, 135.5) cm].

Skill Level:

Yarn Used: Knitpicks Capra DK (83% Merino Wool, 15% Cashmere; 1.76 oz/50 g [123 yds/112 m] per ball): 11 (12, 14, 15, 17, 18) balls in Caviar #24963.

Gauge(s):
Pattern Gauge: 18 sts = 4" [10 cm] (at widest point) and 24 rows = 4" [10 cm] in Lace patt, blocked.
Yarn Label Gauge and Information: A dk weight yarn in a cashmere and merino wool blend with a gauge of 5 - 5.5 sts = 1" [2.5 cm] on size 5-7 needles [4 mm-4.5 mm]. NOTE: This yarn is slightly heavier than most dk weight yarns. Please swatch and measure gauge carefully.

Total Yardage Required: 1275 (1435, 1620, 1785, 2035, 2210) [1166 (1312, 1481, 1632, 1861, 2021) m].

Some suggested yarn substitutes to try:
If you have a yarn substitute to suggest for this project, email us!

Knitting Needles Used: Size 9 [5.5 mm] 24" or longer circular knitting needle OR SIZE TO OBTAIN GAUGE (there are too many sts when working the cardigan to fit on straight needles); Size 9 [5.5 mm] set of DPNs OR SIZE TO OBTAIN GAUGE (for working SLEEVES in the round) OR SIZE TO OBTAIN GAUGE; Size 7 [4.5 mm] needles (for working neckband rows).

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