Piper And Lace

Piper and Lace Cardigan by Hanks And Needles

Design Overview

Piper and Lace is a versatile knitted cardigan designed by Makenzie Alvarez for Hanks And Needles. This intermediate-level project combines classic simplicity with elegant detailing, featuring a smooth stockinette body paired with decorative lace bell sleeves and a lace collar. The design transitions seamlessly from formal occasions to casual comfort, making it an ideal everyday cardigan that works equally well for a night out or relaxing at home.

What Is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern creates a button-front cardigan available in six sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, and XXL. The finished bust circumference ranges from 46.25 inches (117.5 cm) to 65.25 inches (165.75 cm), with sleeve lengths between 20.5 and 22 inches (52 to 55.75 cm). The cardigan features a ribbed and laced collar that frames the neckline, bell-shaped sleeves with lace detailing, and a structured body suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone piece.

Primary Knitting Techniques

• Stockinette Stitch – The main fabric construction technique used throughout the cardigan body, creating a smooth, classic knit surface
• Lace Knitting – Applied to the bell sleeves and collar to add visual interest and an elegant, openwork texture
• Ribbing – Used in the collar construction to provide structure and elasticity
• Circular Knitting – The pattern utilizes circular needles for seamless construction and even fabric tension
• Sleeve Cap Shaping – Techniques for creating the bell sleeve silhouette with proper fit at the armhole

Stitches and Stitch Work

The primary stitch used is stockinette stitch, which forms the foundation of the cardigan body and provides the smooth, refined appearance characteristic of classic cardigans. Lace stitches are incorporated into the bell sleeves and collar sections, creating openwork patterns that add sophistication and visual texture. Ribbing stitches are used at the collar to ensure proper structure and recovery. The pattern includes shaping techniques such as increases and decreases to form the bell sleeve silhouette and maintain proper garment proportions across all six sizes.

Materials and Tools

The recommended yarn is Debbie Bliss Piper, a blend of 50% cotton and 50% viscose that provides a comfortable, breathable fabric ideal for a cardigan meant to be worn frequently. Each ball contains 218 yards (200 meters) and weighs 3.5 ounces (100 grams). The pattern requires 8 to 12 balls depending on the finished size selected. The yarn weight is DK (double knitting), a medium weight that works well for garment construction and drapes beautifully.

Required needles include US 6 (4mm) circular needles with a minimum length of 32 inches (80 cm) for working the body in the round. US 6 (4mm) double-pointed needles (DPN's) are specified for sleeve construction, though circular needles may be substituted if preferred. Additional notions include 2 stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, and a stitch holder for temporarily securing stitches during construction.

Skill Level and Difficulty

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to tackle lace work and garment shaping. The combination of straightforward stockinette sections with lace detailing provides a good balance of challenge and achievability. Knitters should be comfortable reading pattern instructions, managing stitch counts across multiple sizes, and executing both basic and decorative stitches.