Virginia Cardigan

Virginia Crochet Cardigan by Amanda Perkins

What is Being Made

The Virginia Cardigan is an elegant lacy crochet cardigan designed by Amanda Perkins. This garment is a loose-fitting, drape-forward piece that features decorative motifs throughout. The cardigan is available in three size ranges: Small (up to 34" chest), Medium/Large (up to 42" chest), and 1X/2X (up to 50" chest). The length from neck to the lowest point of the hem measures 25 inches (63 centimeters) for Small and Medium/Large sizes, and 29 inches (73 centimeters) for 1X/2X sizes. Sleeve length varies according to size and can be customized by adding or removing motifs.

Techniques Used

The Virginia Cardigan employs the "join as you go" method, a crochet technique that allows motifs to be connected during construction rather than assembled afterward. This method streamlines the finishing process and creates a seamless integration between individual design elements. The garment is intentionally designed with generous ease to achieve an elegant drape, meaning the finished piece is intentionally loose-fitting rather than form-fitting. The drape quality of this cardigan is significantly dependent on yarn fiber content, particularly silk content, which contributes to the fluid movement and sophisticated appearance of the finished garment.

Stitches and Construction

The cardigan is constructed using crochet motifs as the primary structural element. While specific stitch names are not detailed in the pattern documentation provided, the motif-based construction combined with the join-as-you-go technique creates an intricate lacy appearance characteristic of intermediate-level crochet work.

Materials: Yarn and Tools

Recommended Yarn: Fyberspates Scrumptious 4 ply in the colorway Glisten (360 metres per 100 grams per skein). Yarn quantities required are: Small – 400 grams, Medium/Large – 500 grams, and 1X/2X – 600 grams.

Alternative Yarn Options: The pattern recommends several substitute yarns with similar fiber properties:

• Skein Queen: Selkino, Lustrous, Luminosity, and Oasis Grande
• John Arbon Textiles: Exmoor Sock and Harvest Hues

The Virginia Cardigan is designed specifically for 4 ply yarn with high silk content. The silk component is essential to achieving the intended elegance and drape of the finished garment. Using a yarn without adequate silk content will negatively impact the cardigan's drape and overall aesthetic qualities. A crochet hook appropriate for 4 ply yarn weight is required, though the specific hook size is not included in the provided pattern excerpt.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is classified as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to work with more complex techniques such as motif construction and join-as-you-go methods.