Waverly Cardigan

Waverly Cardigan by Valerie Hobbs

What Is Being Made

The Waverly Cardigan is a casually tailored knit cardigan designed by Valerie Hobbs, ideal for layering during autumn weather or relaxing indoors. This downloadable PDF knitting pattern features a sophisticated deep shawl collar and finished cuffs, creating a refined silhouette suitable for both casual and semi-dressed occasions. The cardigan is available in eight sizes ranging from XS to XXL, with finished bust measurements from 33½ inches to 52 inches and a length between 23½ and 25½ inches depending on size. The design is intended to be worn with 2 to 4 inches of ease, and the fronts overlap by approximately 2 inches for a wrap-style closure.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level cardigan employs several key knitting techniques to achieve its polished appearance. The pattern utilizes shaping techniques to create the fitted bodice and tailored fronts. I-cord trim is incorporated as a finishing detail, which can be worked in a contrasting yarn color for added visual interest. The construction method involves working pieces separately before assembly, a traditional approach that allows for precise shaping of the collar, cuffs, and body sections.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

While specific stitch patterns are detailed within the full PDF instructions, the Waverly Cardigan employs fundamental knitting stitches appropriate for an intermediate skill level. The use of I-cord for trim requires double-pointed needle technique, a skill that intermediate knitters should be comfortable executing. The overall construction focuses on clean, classic stitchwork that showcases the beauty of quality yarn.

Yarn and Materials

The Waverly Cardigan requires between 1290 and 2012 yards of worsted weight yarn, depending on the size selected. The pattern is designed for worsted weight wool or wool blend yarns, offering flexibility in fiber choice. The original design was created using Madelinetosh Tosh Vintage, a 100% superwash merino wool yarn shown in the Rain Water colorway. For the optional I-cord trim, an additional 60 to 70 yards of yarn is needed, which may be in a contrasting color for design variation.

Needles and Tools

This pattern calls for U.S. size 7 (4.5mm) straight or circular needles for the main body pieces, allowing knitters to choose their preferred needle style. U.S. size 7 (4.5mm) double-pointed needles are required for working the I-cord trim. Knitters should adjust needle size as needed to obtain the correct gauge specified in the pattern instructions.

Pattern Details

• Designer: Valerie Hobbs (laughingstar knits)
• Craft: Knitting
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Yarn Weight: DK and Worsted
• Available Sizes: XS, S, M1, M2, L, XL, XXL
• Format: Downloadable PDF pattern
• Finished Bust Measurements: 33½ to 52 inches across eight size options
• Garment Length: 23½ to 25½ inches depending on size

Pattern copyright © 2014, 2020 Valerie Hobbs. For personal use only.