Product Description
Sometimes the heart yearns for a change. Not necessarily a drastic one, simply a break from routine, or a new adventure, or maybe just the freedom to act on a whim. With its unique construction coupled with its versatile style, Breaking the Waves embodies our heart’s desire for something different. Beginning with a simple top-down raglan construction, the pattern then literally changes direction, and the lacy fronts are worked sideways, providing a welcome break from the usual without being overly complicated. The finished cardigan can be worn wrapped or open, dressy or casual – numerous possibilities to suit your every mood.
Created in collaboration with Malabrigo Yarn for their Freelance Patterns Project.
Breaking the Waves Cardigan by Justyna Lorkowska
What is Being Made
Breaking the Waves is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Justyna Lorkowska in collaboration with Malabrigo Yarn for their Freelance Patterns Project. This garment is a versatile layering piece available in six sizes ranging from XS to XXL, with finished bust measurements from 73 cm (29.25 inches) to 122 cm (48.75 inches). The cardigan is designed to be worn with zero ease across the back and features overlapping or open front panels, offering flexible styling options for different preferences and body shapes.
Knitting Techniques and Construction
This cardigan employs circular knitting techniques using multiple needle sizes to create a structured, well-fitting garment. The construction utilizes three different circular needle sizes—3.75 mm (US #5), 3.5 mm (US #4), and 3.25 mm (US #3)—along with double-pointed needles for smaller circumference sections. The graduated needle sizing creates intentional gauge changes that shape the garment and control fabric density in different areas. The pattern requires stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping increases or decreases, and a tapestry needle is used for weaving in yarn ends. Stitch holders or scrap yarn are necessary for managing live stitches during construction.
Stitches Used
The primary stitch structure is stockinette stitch (St st), which creates the smooth, classic knit fabric that forms the foundation of this cardigan. The gauge for stockinette stitch is 24 stitches and 34 rows over 10 cm (4 inches) when worked on the primary 3.75 mm needles, establishing the tension and drape of the finished garment.
Yarn and Materials
Breaking the Waves is designed for Malabrigo Sock, a 4-ply weight yarn composed of 100% merino wool. Each skein provides 440 yards of yardage per 100 grams. The pattern requires 3 to 6 skeins depending on size selection, with the smallest sizes (XS and S) requiring 3 skeins, medium sizes (M and L) requiring 4 skeins, and larger sizes (XL and XXL) requiring 5 to 6 skeins respectively. The sample cardigan shown in Size M was created in colorway 800 Tiziano Red, demonstrating the rich color possibilities available in the Malabrigo Sock yarn range. The merino fiber provides warmth, breathability, and elasticity ideal for a fitted cardigan design.
Needles Required
The pattern calls for three sets of needles in graduated sizes. The primary working needle is 3.75 mm (US #5) in a 80 cm (32-inch) circular length for the main body sections. A secondary needle size of 3.5 mm (US #4)—one size smaller—is required in a 60 cm (24-inch) circular needle for ribbed edgings and fitted sections. The smallest needle size, 3.25 mm (US #3)—two sizes smaller than the gauge needle—is used in both 100 cm (40-inch) circular and double-pointed needle formats for cuffs and other tight-fitting areas. This multi-needle approach allows the knitter to create professional finishing details and proper fit throughout the garment.
```Specifications
| Brand: | Independent Designer |
| Yarn Weight: | 4 Ply |
| Pages: | 0 |
| Designer: | Justyna Lorkowska |
| Craft: | Knitting |
| Format: | Downloadable PDF |
| Languages: | English |
| Number of Patterns: | 1 |
| Skill Level: | Intermediate |
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