Mountains and Stone Cardigan - Chunky Shawl Collar

Mountains and Stone Cardigan by Lovely by Lee

What is Being Made

The Mountains and Stone Cardigan is a chunky shawl collar cardigan designed as an intermediate-level knitting project. This downloadable PDF pattern from independent designer Lovely by Lee offers a classic cardigan silhouette with a distinctive shawl collar detail, suitable for knitters with some experience who are ready to tackle a more substantial garment construction.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is created using the knitting craft, worked primarily in flat pieces that are later assembled. The cardigan construction involves knitting separate body and sleeve components, which are then joined together to create the finished garment. The shawl collar is a signature design element that adds elegance and visual interest to the piece.

Stitches and Stitch Work

The primary stitch used throughout this cardigan is Stockinette Stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a flat appearance on the right side. The gauge for this pattern is approximately 9 stitches by 12 rows over 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch, which is typical for super bulky yarn worked at a relaxed tension. This relatively loose gauge contributes to the quick-knitting nature of the project and the chunky, substantial feel of the finished cardigan.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Mountains and Stone Cardigan is designed to be worked in super bulky yarn (category 6), with yardage requirements ranging from 450 yards to 1,500 yards depending on the size selected. The pattern offers multiple size options to accommodate different finished garment dimensions.

Needles and Tools Required

• US 15/10mm circular knitting needles in 29-40" length for main body work
• US 15/10mm circular knitting needles in 16" length or double pointed needles for smaller circumference sections
• US 13/9mm circular knitting needles in 40-60" length for ribbing or edging
• US 11/8mm circular knitting needles in 40-60" length for finishing details
• Large eye blunt needle for weaving in yarn ends
• Four stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and construction points
• Two stitch holders or scrap yarn for holding stitches during assembly

Finishing Details

The cardigan features four buttons sized between 1.5 to 2 inches for the full-length closure, providing both functional and decorative elements to the finished piece. The button placement and spacing would be detailed within the complete pattern instructions.

Difficulty Level and Skill Requirements

Rated as an intermediate difficulty project, this cardigan is suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are comfortable working with circular needles, managing multiple needle sizes, and assembling garment pieces. The use of super bulky yarn means the project progresses quickly despite the intermediate skill requirement, making it an accessible challenge for developing knitters.