1161 Tamarack - Cardigan Knitting Pattern for Women in Valley Yarns Whately

1161 Tamarack Cardigan Knitting Pattern Overview

The 1161 Tamarack is an elegant wrap-front cardigan designed by Julie Turjoman for intermediate knitters. This sophisticated garment features a distinctive wrap-front closure with a deep V-neck and integrated front bands that can be secured at the side waist, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions and body types. The cardigan is available in nine sizes ranging from XS to 5XL, with finished bust measurements from 34¼ inches to 66¼ inches when fronts are overlapped.

Construction Techniques

The Tamarack cardigan employs multiple construction methods to achieve its elegant silhouette. The garment is primarily worked flat, allowing for precise shaping of the wrap-front design and integrated front bands. Certain sections, including the sleeves and ribbed details, are worked in the round using double-pointed needles, which eliminates the need for seaming in these areas. The seamless construction combined with strategic use of both flat and circular knitting creates a refined, professional finish.

Stitch Patterns and Details

The cardigan showcases a delicate eyelet rib pattern that serves as a signature design element, adding visual interest and texture throughout the garment. The long sleeves are worked in stockinette stitch, providing a smooth, classic foundation that contrasts beautifully with the textured eyelet rib sections. The eyelet details contribute to the garment's elegant appearance while maintaining breathability, making it suitable for layering during winter months.

Yarn and Materials

• Yarn: Valley Yarns Whately in Natural colorway, a luxurious blend of 68% Baby Alpaca and 32% Organic Pima Cotton
• Yardage: 164 yards per 50-gram ball; pattern requires 6 to 14 balls depending on size
• Weight: Worsted weight yarn, ideal for creating structured garments with excellent drape
• Needles: US size 9 (5.00 mm) circular needles in 16-inch and 24–32-inch lengths, plus double-pointed needles for smaller circumferences; US size 7 (4.5 mm) double-pointed needles for working the tie details
• Additional Materials: Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and construction points

Yarn Characteristics and Performance

Valley Yarns Whately combines baby alpaca and organic Pima cotton to create a fiber blend that is exceptionally soft against the skin. The alpaca component contributes warmth and a distinctive hazy surface texture, while the organic Pima cotton adds breathability and durability. This blend is particularly well-suited for garments worn close to the body, as it minimizes irritation and provides comfort throughout extended wear. The hazy appearance created by the alpaca fibers adds visual depth and sophistication to the finished cardigan.

Sizing and Fit

The pattern accommodates a wide range of body types with nine size options. The cardigan is designed to fit with 2–4 inches of positive ease, meaning the finished bust measurement will be slightly larger than the wearer's actual bust measurement. This ease allowance provides comfortable room for movement and layering while maintaining the garment's elegant silhouette. The wrap-front design with adjustable side-waist ties offers additional customization for different body shapes.

Skill Level and Complexity

Rated as an intermediate pattern, the Tamarack cardigan requires knitters to have foundational skills including working with circular needles, managing stitch markers, and understanding basic shaping techniques. The combination of eyelet rib patterns and seamless construction methods demands attention to detail and familiarity with reading knitting charts or written instructions. Intermediate knitters will find this project appropriately challenging without being overwhelming, offering an opportunity to expand their technical repertoire.