Catriona

Catriona Cardigan by Marie Wallin

What is Being Made

Catriona is a sophisticated cardigan design from the Winter Crochet collection by independent designer Marie Wallin. This garment is available in five sizes to fit bust measurements ranging from 81-86 cm (32-34 inches) through to 122-127 cm (48-50 inches), making it accessible for a wide range of body types. The cardigan features a classic button-front closure with seven buttons and is designed as a layering piece suitable for cooler seasons.

Techniques and Construction

Catriona employs a hybrid approach, combining both knitting and crochet techniques to create visual interest and textural variety. The primary construction method is knitting, which forms the main body of the cardigan. Crochet elements are integrated into the design, likely used for edging, trim, or decorative detailing that complements the knitted sections. This mixed-craft approach allows for sophisticated shaping and finishing touches that elevate the design beyond a simple knitted cardigan.

Stitches Used

The knitted sections are worked primarily in stockinette stitch (st st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric base. Shaping is achieved through strategic increases worked near side seams at regular intervals—specifically, one stitch is increased near each side seam marker on the 10th row and then every following 10th row throughout the garment length.

Crochet elements incorporate several stitch types to create decorative finishes:

• Chain (ch) – the foundation stitch used in crochet construction
• Double crochet (dc) – a fundamental crochet stitch providing structure
• Half treble (htr) – a taller stitch adding dimension
• Double treble (dtr) – an even taller stitch for dramatic effects
• Quadruple treble (qtr) – the tallest stitch used, creating extended vertical lines
• Picot – a decorative element created by chaining three stitches and slip stitching into the third chain from the hook, producing a delicate looped edge detail
• Slip stitch (ss) – used to join rounds and secure stitches

Materials and Specifications

This pattern calls for Rowan Felted Tweed yarn in a DK (double knitting) weight, which is a medium-weight yarn ideal for creating garments with good drape and structure. Two colorways are used:

• Color A – Barn Red (shade 196): The primary color, requiring 6, 6, 7, 8, or 9 balls of 50-gram skeins depending on size
• Color B – Cinnamon (shade 175): An accent color, requiring 2, 2, 3, 3, or 3 balls of 50-gram skeins depending on size

The pattern requires the following needles and hooks:

• 2¾mm (US 2) needles – typically used for ribbing or smaller gauge work
• 3mm (US 2/3) needles – the main needles for body construction
• 2.50mm (US B1/C2) crochet hook – for crochet edging and trim details

Tension and Fit

The pattern is worked to a tension of 25 stitches and 36 rows over 10 centimeters, measured over stockinette stitch using the 3mm needles. Achieving the correct tension is essential for proper fit, as the finished bust measurement ranges from 46.5 cm (18½ inches) in the smallest size to 66.5 cm (26 inches) in the largest size. This generous ease allows for comfortable layering over other garments.

Difficulty Level

Catriona is classified as an advanced pattern, reflecting the complexity of combining knitting and crochet techniques, managing color changes between Barn Red and Cinnamon, executing precise shaping increases, and finishing with decorative crochet edging including picot details. Experienced crafters comfortable with both knitting and crochet will find this an engaging project that showcases technical skill.