Floral Mesh Cardigan #182

Floral Mesh Cardigan #182 by Sue McCain

What is Being Made

The Floral Mesh Cardigan #182 is a sophisticated lace cardigan designed by Sue McCain, available in an extensive size range from XXS through 6X. This open-front cardigan features delicate mesh lace patterning throughout and is designed to be worn with optional closures. The finished measurements range from 28 inches for the smallest size to 65¾ inches for the largest size, accommodating a wide variety of body types and fit preferences.

Construction Method and Techniques

This cardigan is constructed using a bottom-up, seamed approach with the body worked flat on needles. The primary construction technique involves working the main body in one continuous piece up to the armholes, which creates a seamless flow in the lace pattern and ensures consistent stitch definition. The sleeves are worked separately back and forth, then sewn into the armholes using traditional seaming techniques. This method allows for precise fit adjustments and clean armhole shaping.

The pattern incorporates lace work as a central design element, creating the characteristic mesh appearance that defines the cardigan's aesthetic. A picot-style edging provides a refined finishing touch to the garment, adding visual interest and a polished detail. The cardigan offers design flexibility with optional closure options: it can be worn completely open without any fasteners, secured with a decorative pin at the neckline, or finished with small buttons if the crafter chooses to work the edging to accommodate button placement.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The foundation of this cardigan is stockinette stitch (St st), which provides a smooth, classic base for the lace patterning. The lace elements are integrated throughout the design, creating the mesh effect that characterizes the garment. The pattern specifies a gauge of 5 stitches in stockinette stitch over an unspecified width, which is typical for worsted-weight yarn projects. The picot-style edging requires understanding of decorative edge techniques that create small loops or points, adding textural dimension to the finished piece.

Materials and Tools

This project uses worsted weight wool blend yarn, which provides durability, structure, and breathability suitable for a cardigan that will be worn as a layering piece. Yardage requirements vary based on sleeve length and size selection. For 3/4-length sleeves, yardage ranges from 825 yards for XXS to 1,650 yards for 6X. For long sleeves, yardage ranges from 900 yards for XXS to 1,775 yards for 6X. A size 8 (5 mm) circular needle measuring 29 inches long is required, with the circular needle format allowing for comfortable handling of the flat-worked pieces and accommodating the width of the cardigan body.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle lace work and garment construction. The combination of lace techniques, seaming, and the need to manage multiple pieces requires experience beyond basic knitting but remains accessible to dedicated crafters willing to work through the pattern instructions carefully.

Design Flexibility

The Floral Mesh Cardigan #182 offers crafters flexibility in sleeve length, with the option to work either 3/4-length or long sleeves depending on personal preference and intended use. The closure options—open wear, pinned closure, or buttoned closure—allow the finished cardigan to be styled in multiple ways, extending its versatility in a wardrobe.