Wasa Marin

Wasa Marin Cardigan by Meiju Kallio

What Is Being Made

The Wasa Marin is a reversible lace cardigan designed by Meiju Kallio, offering versatile styling options for both casual spring wear and dressy winter occasions. This intermediate-level knitting project features a sophisticated construction that allows the wearer to choose which side to display, making it a truly adaptable garment. The cardigan is designed to be worn with minimal to no ease, providing a flattering, close-fitting silhouette.

Sizing and Fit

The pattern is available in seven sizes ranging from extra-small through triple-extra-large (XS to XXXL). Finished bust measurements span from approximately 31 inches (78 cm) for the smallest size to 55 inches (138 cm) for the largest size. The cardigan accommodates bust sizes from 30 inches (75 cm) to 54 inches (135 cm), with the garment intended to fit close to the body with no ease or a small amount of positive ease from the bust area.

Techniques Used

The Wasa Marin showcases several advanced knitting techniques that contribute to its sophisticated appearance and reversible nature. The reversible lace construction is the standout feature, allowing both sides of the fabric to be visually interesting and wearable. The cardigan incorporates wide lace front panels that frame the body elegantly, while picot edges provide a delicate, refined finish to the garment. The flattering shaping throughout the design ensures a polished fit across all size ranges.

Stitches Used

While specific stitch abbreviations are not detailed in the provided pattern excerpt, the construction relies heavily on lace stitchwork to create the reversible pattern. The picot edges require knowledge of picot cast-on or bind-off techniques, common in refined knitwear design. The wide lace front panels suggest the use of yarn-over and decrease combinations typical of lace knitting, creating the open, decorative patterns that define this cardigan's aesthetic.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Wasa Marin is designed to be knitted with 4-ply weight yarn, specifically tested with Lanitium ex Machina Pure Merino 150, a superwash merino wool yarn that provides 150 grams and 652 yards (596 meters) per skein. Yardage requirements vary by size: the smallest size (XS) requires approximately 1,350 yards (1,240 meters), while the largest size (XXXL) requires approximately 2,610 yards (2,402 meters). Most sizes require three to four skeins, with the largest sizes requiring five skeins. The superwash merino fiber ensures easy care and durability, making this cardigan practical for regular wear despite its delicate lace construction.

Pattern Details

This downloadable PDF pattern was created by independent designer Meiju Kallio and is protected by copyright (© 2014). The pattern is intended for personal use only and should not be distributed, sold, or used for commercial knitting purposes. Pattern support and questions can be directed to meijuknits@gmail.com. The intermediate difficulty level makes this project suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle reversible lace and shaping techniques.