Idylewylde

Idylewylde Vintage Inspired Cardigan by Melissa Wehrle

What is Being Made

The Idylewylde is a vintage-inspired cardigan featuring classic styling with refined details. This knitted cardigan showcases a delicate lace pattern along the hem of the body and includes small slits at the hem of the three-quarter length sleeves, adding both texture and contemporary interest to a timeless silhouette.

Construction Method

The Idylewylde employs an efficient mixed construction approach. The body is worked in one piece up to the armholes, then divided into separate sections that are worked flat. This method reduces seaming and creates a seamless garment through the torso. The sleeves are worked flat initially to the top of the slit, then joined in the round for the upper portion, and finished flat at the sleeve cap for a refined construction.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Tubular Cast On: Applied specifically to the sleeve, this advanced casting technique creates a professional, tubular edge that provides flexibility and a polished finish
• Three Needle Bind Off: Used to securely join edges with a strong, neat seam, ensuring durability at critical joining points
• Lace Pattern Work: Incorporates a lace pattern chart along the body hem, requiring yarn overs and decreases for an openwork texture
• Flat and In-the-Round Knitting: Combines flat knitting for body sections and sleeves with circular knitting for the upper sleeve, demonstrating versatile technique application

Stitches and Stitch Details

The pattern utilizes a lace pattern chart featuring yarn overs and decreases to create the textured hem detail. The specific stitch counts and pattern repeats are provided via the included lace pattern chart, allowing knitters to work the decorative element with precision.

Materials and Specifications

This intermediate-level cardigan is designed to be worked in 4-ply yarn weight, which provides excellent stitch definition for both the body stockinette and the lace pattern details. The pattern specifies Madelinetosh tosh yarn, a premium fingering-weight option known for its softness and vibrant color range. The cardigan is available in eight sizes, with finished chest measurements ranging from 31.5 inches to 54.25 inches and finished lengths from 20.5 inches to 23.5 inches, accommodating various body types and style preferences. Knitters will need appropriate needles for 4-ply yarn work to achieve proper gauge and fabric drape.

Skill Level

Rated as intermediate difficulty, the Idylewylde requires solid foundational knitting skills including comfort with lace patterns, multiple construction methods, and specialized techniques such as tubular cast-on and three-needle bind-off. This pattern is well-suited for experienced knitters seeking to expand their technical repertoire.