Unjaded

Unjaded Cardigan by Morgana Knits

Project Overview

Unjaded is an open kimono-style cardigan designed by Alexandra Giarmadourou for an oversized, flowing silhouette. This intermediate-level knitting project features geometric lace patterning that creates an airy aesthetic while maintaining structure through thoughtful yarn and construction choices.

What Is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern produces a lightweight cardigan with a kimono-inspired open front design. The garment is tailored for an intentionally oversized fit, making it versatile for layering and comfortable wear. The geometric lace pattern adds visual interest while the open construction allows for breathability and movement.

Finished Dimensions

• Size S-M: 132 cm (52 inches) bust after blocking
• Size L-XL: 164 cm (64.5 inches) bust after blocking
• Size XXL-XXXL: 198 cm (78 inches) bust after blocking

Knitting Techniques

The cardigan is worked flat as a single piece from the bottom to the armpits using circular needles, a common technique that allows for easier stitch management and reduces the need for seaming. The geometric lace pattern is created using a chart, requiring knitters to read and follow detailed stitch instructions. This intermediate-level construction method combines flat knitting with lace work, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle patterned designs.

Stitches and Stitch Abbreviations

• k = knit
• p = purl
• st(s) = stitch/stitches
• r = row/rows
• RS = right side
• WS = wrong side
• rep = repeat/repeats

The lace pattern is worked according to a provided chart (Chart A), which guides the placement of knit and purl stitches to create the geometric lace design.

Gauge and Measurements

The pattern calls for a gauge of 18 stitches by 25 rows over 10 by 10 centimeters (4 by 4 inches) when measured unblocked. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the finished dimensions specified in the pattern.

Yarn Requirements and Specifications

The suggested yarn is NORO Tokonatsu (colorway 8 Teal), a worsted weight yarn composed of 40% cotton, 30% viscose, and 30% silk. Each 50-gram skein yields 125 meters of yardage. Yardage requirements vary by size:

• Size S-M: 6 skeins
• Size L-XL: 9 skeins
• Size XXL-XXXL: 12 skeins

The designer specifically selected this yarn for its bright teal color and subtle tweed effect, which creates a gemstone-like appearance. The fiber blend provides a natural nubby texture that prevents excessive drooping, a consideration important for oversized garments. Any light worsted weight yarn with cotton or viscose content would be suitable as a substitute, provided it has a textured rather than sleek finish to maintain the intended drape and structure.

Tools and Notions

• 4 mm circular needles (or size needed to obtain gauge)
• Tapestry needle for sewing and finishing
• Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats

Design Characteristics

The geometric lace pattern is the defining design feature of this cardigan, creating an open, airy aesthetic that balances the oversized silhouette. The lace work requires attention to detail but is manageable for intermediate knitters. The combination of the textured yarn and lace pattern results in a garment that is both visually striking and structurally sound, preventing the common issue of drooping that can occur with oversized knitwear made from smooth yarns.