Maliades Cardigan

Maliades Cardigan by Corrine Walcher

What is Being Made

The Maliades Cardigan is a knitted cardigan sweater inspired by Greek mythology, named after the Maliades—protector nymphs of apple trees and flocks of sheep. This design is particularly suited as a Rhinebeck sweater and features elegant leaf lace detailing. The cardigan is available in six sizes ranging from 32 inches to 52 inches chest circumference, with corresponding sleeve and length adjustments to accommodate different body proportions.

Design Features and Construction

This intermediate-level cardigan showcases a deep leaf lace hem and cuffs, adding sophisticated visual interest to the garment. The pattern provides finished measurements for chest circumference from 32(36, 40, 44, 48, 52) inches and sleeve circumference from 14.75(15.75, 17.6, 18.4, 19.6, 20.4) inches. Length options range from 13 to 16 inches from the cast-on edge to the underarm, with total length from cast-on edge to shoulder seam measuring 21.5 to 27 inches depending on size selected.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Maliades Cardigan employs lace knitting techniques to create its distinctive leaf-patterned hem and cuff details. This intermediate project requires understanding of lace stitch construction, which involves strategic yarn-overs and decreases to form decorative openwork patterns. The cardigan is constructed using knitting in the round methods, a technique that allows for seamless construction and even fabric development.

Materials and Tools Required

Yarn: The pattern calls for Dragonfly Fibers Traveler, a 100% Superwash Merino wool yarn with 280 yards per 113-gram skein. Yardage requirements are 4(4, 5, 5, 6, 6) skeins depending on size, with the sample knit in the Hidalgo colorway. This DK-weight yarn provides excellent stitch definition for showcasing the lace details.

Needles and Notions: Knitters will need US #5/3.75mm circular needles measuring 32 inches or longer (larger sizes may benefit from longer needles to accommodate increased stitch counts). A set of US #5/3.75mm double-pointed needles or preferred method for knitting in the round is also required. Additional supplies include stitch markers, waste yarn or stitch holders for managing stitches during construction, a yarn needle for weaving in ends, and 1/2-inch diameter buttons for the cardigan closure.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle lace construction and circular needle techniques. The combination of lace stitches and in-the-round construction requires attention to stitch counts and pattern repeats, but the finished garment rewards the effort with a beautifully detailed wearable.