Leaving

Leaving Cardigan and Pullover by Anne Hanson

What is Being Made

Leaving is a feminine knitted cardigan or pullover sweater available in nine sizes ranging from XXS/XS through 4X. The design features a distinctive silhouette with a loose hem that transitions to a close-fitting bust and sleeves, creating a flattering A-line shape. The cardigan version is finished at the chest with approximately 32.25 to 56.5 inches of circumference, offering generous sizing options for different body types. Both the cardigan and pullover versions showcase decorative openwork leaf panels positioned at the center front, center back, and along the lower sleeves, adding visual interest and texture to the garment.

Design Features and Construction

The Leaving design emphasizes feminine shaping through strategic increases and decreases that create the A-line silhouette. The garment is constructed with a scoop neckline and features a distinctive twisted-rib trim that edges the hem, sleeves, front bands, and neckline. This ribbed trim provides both structural definition and a polished finish to the piece. The openwork leaf panels serve as the primary decorative element, creating an elegant focal point across the front, back, and sleeve sections of the sweater.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate-level knitting project incorporates several key techniques. The construction includes openwork leaf motifs, which require yarn overs and decreases to create the delicate, lacy appearance. Twisted-rib stitching is used throughout the trim details, adding texture and elasticity to the edges. The pattern employs shaping techniques to achieve the close-fitting bust and the A-line flare, demonstrating intermediate knitting skills including increases, decreases, and potentially short-row shaping for proper garment fit.

Yarn and Materials

The Leaving pattern is designed for sport-weight yarn and calls for approximately the yardage needed for the chosen size. The pattern was photographed in Woolen Rabbit Oasis in three colorways: Moroccan Spice, Birch Beer, and Chocolate Chambord. Anne Hanson provides an extensive list of suggested yarn options suitable for this project, including:

• Woolen Rabbit Oasis
• Handmaiden Camelspin
• Pagewood Farm Tundra
• Anzula Oasis
• Waterloo Wools Winterbourne
• Impulse of Delight Camel Silk
• Great Northern Yarns Yak DK
• Kollage Yarns Scrumptious

The pattern notes that any soft, relaxed sport-weight yarn that knits to the specified gauge will work for this project. The suggested yarns emphasize natural fibers and soft textures, making them ideal for a garment designed to be worn close to the body at the bust and sleeves.

Sizing and Fit

The pattern accommodates a wide range of body sizes with nine distinct size options. The cardigan version offers finished chest measurements from 32.25 inches for the smallest size to 56.5 inches for the largest size. The design is intended to be worn with negative to positive ease, providing flexibility in fit preferences. The close-fitting sleeves and bust paired with the loose hem create a balanced, flattering silhouette across all sizes.