Olive

Olive Cardigan by Deb Hoss

Garment Overview

Olive is a double-breasted cardigan designed by Deb Hoss as an intermediate-level knitting project. This versatile layering piece bridges the gap between a casual jacket and a cozy sweater, making it ideal for cooler weather. The cardigan features overlapping fronts secured with six buttons, creating a classic double-breasted silhouette that wraps around the body twice for extra warmth and style.

Construction Method

Olive is worked flat from the bottom up as a single piece before being strategically split to create distinct design sections. The body begins as one unified piece, then separates into front garter panels and a stockinette center section. Each component is knit individually before being seamed together. The sleeves are knit in the round using circular knitting techniques and are then set in using traditional seaming methods. This construction approach combines the efficiency of flat knitting with the precision of circular techniques.

Stitches and Techniques

This cardigan showcases fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The primary stitches used are:

• Stockinette stitch – forms the smooth, refined center of the body and sleeves
• Garter stitch – creates textured front panels that frame the cardigan opening

Essential skills required include long-tail cast-on for a secure foundation, circular knitting for the sleeves, and decreasing techniques such as slip-slip-knit (ssk) and knit two together (k2tog) for shaping. The combination of these basic stitches creates a dense, springy fabric with subtle shaping that flatters the wearer.

Yarn and Materials

Olive is designed to be worked in Aran weight wool, a medium-heavy yarn that produces a dense and resilient fabric. The Aran weight yarn is ideal for this project, as it creates the substantial texture and insulating properties necessary for a warm cardigan. Standard knitting needles appropriate for Aran weight yarn are required, along with circular needles for sleeve construction. Six buttons are needed to complete the double-breasted closure.

Sizing and Fit

Olive is available in seven sizes ranging from 33 inches to 57 inches in finished bust circumference, accommodating measurements of 83.8 cm to 144.8 cm. The sample shown measures 37 inches (94 cm) and is worn with 2 inches (5 cm) of positive ease, demonstrating a comfortable, relaxed fit suitable for layering.

Design Features

The cardigan's design emphasizes both comfort and style. The double-breasted button closure with overlapping fronts creates a sophisticated look while providing adjustable warmth. The combination of garter-stitch side panels with a stockinette center adds visual interest and texture variation. The resulting fabric is described as cozy and springy, perfect for wrapping around the body on cool days. This project is noted as a quick knit that balances ease of construction with professional-looking results.