Echium Cardigan

Echium Cardigan by Juliana Lustenader

What is Being Made

The Echium Cardigan is a knitted cardigan designed by independent designer Juliana Lustenader. This garment is crafted in super chunky yarn, making it an ideal project for creating a cozy, oversized layering piece. The cardigan is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to 3XL, with finished bust measurements of 34 to 48 inches, plus 4 to 6 inches of ease for comfortable wear.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Echium Cardigan employs fundamental knitting construction techniques suitable for an intermediate skill level. The pattern incorporates increases and decreases to shape the garment, allowing for proper fit across the bust and body. Stitch markers are used throughout to help track pattern repeats and shaping points. The cardigan is worked using both circular needles and double-pointed needles, a common approach in modern knitting patterns that allows for seamless or minimal-seam construction. Bind-offs and cast-ons are used to establish and finish edges, while stitch holders or scrap yarn secure stitches during construction.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure in the Echium Cardigan is Stockinette Stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric ideal for showcasing the texture and drape of bulky yarn. The pattern also features Andalusian Stitch, a textured stitch pattern that alternates knit and purl stitches to create visual interest. Andalusian Stitch is worked over a four-row repeat: Row 1 alternates knit and purl stitches across (with adjustments as needed so purl stitches align vertically on the right side), Row 2 is purled entirely, Row 3 is knitted entirely, and Row 4 is purled entirely. This creates a subtle ribbed texture that adds depth to the finished cardigan.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Echium Cardigan is designed to be worked in super chunky or bulky weight yarn. The pattern specifies Debbie Bliss Paloma, a luxurious yarn composed of 100% alpaca. Each skein contains 1.76 ounces (50 grams) and yields 71 yards (65 meters). Yardage requirements vary by size: XS requires 852 yards (12 skeins), S requires 923 yards (13 skeins), M requires 994 yards (14 skeins), L requires 1,065 yards (15 skeins), 1XL requires 1,136 yards (16 skeins), 2XL requires 1,278 yards (18 skeins), and 3XL requires additional yardage. The pattern color shown is French Navy.

Construction requires US size 13 (9 mm) circular needles in a 32-inch length, along with matching double-pointed needles of the same size. Additional materials include 10 stitch markers, a darning needle for weaving in ends, and 2 stitch holders or scrap yarn for holding stitches during assembly.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 12 stitches by 16 rows over 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit. Knitters should swatch before beginning the project and adjust needle size as necessary to match the specified gauge, ensuring the finished cardigan meets the intended measurements.