Bajads

Bajads Top-Down Ziggurat Cardigan by Åsa Tricosa

What is Being Made

Bajads is a tailored cardigan designed with waist shaping and a relaxed, swingy silhouette. The garment features a distinctive triangle detail in the back that creates visual interest while maintaining a flattering fit. Available in multiple sizes ranging from 81 cm (32 in) to 127 cm (50 in) bust circumference, this cardigan offers versatility for various body types and sizing preferences.

Construction Method

This cardigan is knitted entirely in one continuous piece from the top down, eliminating the need for seaming and significantly reducing finishing work. The seamless construction method means only a minimal number of yarn ends require weaving in, making this an efficient project for knitters seeking a polished finish without extensive assembly. The set-in sleeves are knitted in the round from cap to cuff, with the triangle inset detail echoed in the sleeve design to create visual cohesion throughout the garment.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Bajads cardigan employs several intermediate-level knitting techniques that work together to create its distinctive silhouette. Waist shaping is incorporated to provide structure and a tailored appearance, while the triangle detail in the back requires increases and decreases to form the geometric pattern. The set-in sleeve construction demands understanding of cap shaping and working in the round. The design showcases how strategic shaping can create both fitted and relaxed elements within a single garment, making it an excellent intermediate project for knitters looking to develop their skills in garment construction and shaping techniques.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern recommends 4-ply weight yarn, which provides excellent stitch definition for the geometric triangle details. Specific yarn suggestions include Knitlob's Lair Väinämöinen, a wool and nylon blend offering 402 yards per 100 grams, and Wollmeise Pure, a superwash merino option providing 526 meters per 150 grams. The pattern requires a main color and contrasting color, with yardage varying by size: approximately 630 to 760+ yards for the main color depending on finished bust measurement. Any 4-ply or fingering weight yarn that knits to the specified gauge is suitable as an alternative. The pattern accommodates color choices ranging from somber to vibrant, allowing knitters to personalize their finished cardigan.

Sleeve Options

Knitters can customize the Bajads cardigan by selecting from three sleeve length options: long sleeves, three-quarter length sleeves, or short sleeves. Each sleeve length maintains the triangle inset detail at the cuff, ensuring design consistency regardless of the chosen option.