Darley cardigan

Darley Cardigan by Ruth Garcia-Alcantud

What is Being Made

The Darley Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Ruth Garcia-Alcantud. This is a fitted cardigan available in nine sizes, with finished bust circumferences ranging from 35.5 inches to 59.5 inches. The cardigan is designed with 3.5 inches of positive ease, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various body types and styling preferences.

Knitting Techniques Used

This cardigan employs fundamental knitting construction techniques appropriate for an intermediate crafter. The garment is worked primarily in stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric. The design incorporates i-cord detailing, a tubular knitting technique that produces a decorative, rope-like trim. The cardigan features a structured construction with shaping achieved through strategic decreases to create a fitted silhouette. Closure is accomplished with 2 hooks and eyes or press-studs, providing a secure and polished finish.

Stitches and Stitch Abbreviations

The Darley Cardigan uses the following core stitches and techniques:

• St St (Stockinette Stitch): The primary stitch throughout the garment, creating the smooth, flat fabric base
• K (Knit): Fundamental knit stitch used in stockinette construction
• P (Purl): Used in combination with knit stitches for pattern and texture
• K2tog (Knit 2 Together): A right-leaning decrease used for shaping
• P2tog (Purl 2 Together): A decrease worked on purl rows for shaping continuity
• I-cord: A tubular knitting technique created on double-pointed needles for decorative trim
• CO (Cast On): Used to create the initial stitches
• BO (Bind Off): Used to secure and finish edges

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Darley Cardigan is designed to be worked in The Mulberry Dyer Wensleydale DK, a 100% Wensleydale wool yarn. Each skein contains 225 meters and weighs 100 grams. The yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 4 skeins for the smallest size to 8 skeins for the largest size.

The pattern calls for specific needle sizes to achieve proper gauge and manage stitch weight:

• 4mm / US 6 circular needle: Recommended for the main body of the cardigan to manage the weight and number of stitches effectively
• 3.5mm / US 4 double-pointed needles (dpns): Used specifically for working the i-cord trim detail

The recommended gauge is 20 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is essential to ensure the finished cardigan measures as intended. Additional notions required include stitch markers, stitch holders, a tapestry needle, and scissors.

Design Summary

The Darley Cardigan combines classic knitting fundamentals with thoughtful design details. Its intermediate difficulty level makes it accessible to knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle fitted garment construction. The use of Wensleydale wool provides a durable, breathable fiber suitable for a cardigan intended as a versatile wardrobe layer. The i-cord detail adds a refined, handcrafted aesthetic, while the hook-and-eye or press-stud closure offers both functionality and a polished appearance.