Cardigan with Alternating Lacy Medallions

Cardigan with Alternating Lacy Medallions by Pat Menchini

Project Overview

This is a knitted cardigan featuring alternating lacy medallion motifs throughout the design. Created by designer Pat Menchini, this intermediate-level knitting project combines structured shaping with decorative lace patterning for a sophisticated finished garment suitable for various occasions.

What Is Being Made

A six-button cardigan with lace medallion details worked in DK weight yarn. The cardigan is designed to fit bust measurements ranging from 76–81 cm (30–32 inches) through to 127–132 cm (50–52 inches), with corresponding finished bust measurements from 86 cm to 137 cm. The garment features shoulder shaping and consistent sleeve seams of 44 cm (17½ inches) across all sizes, with length to shoulder shaping ranging from 54 to 60 cm depending on the chosen size.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate project employs lace knitting techniques as the primary decorative element. The alternating lacy medallions create visual interest and texture throughout the cardigan body. The construction utilizes stockinette stitch as the base fabric, which is confirmed by the tension measurement of 22 stitches and 30 rows to 10 cm over stockinette stitch. Lace medallions are integrated into the overall design, requiring careful attention to yarn overs, decreases, and stitch manipulation to create the medallion motifs. The intermediate difficulty rating reflects the combination of lace patterning with garment shaping and finishing details.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The cardigan is worked in Stylecraft Batik DK yarn in the shade Pistachio. DK (double knit) weight yarn is a versatile mid-weight option ideal for creating fabric with good drape and stitch definition. Stylecraft Batik DK provides 138 metres (151 yards) per 50g ball. The pattern requires between 9 and 12 balls of yarn depending on the chosen size, with smaller sizes (76–81 cm bust) requiring 9 balls and larger sizes (127–132 cm bust) requiring 12 balls.

Needles and Notions

• One pair of 3.25 mm (UK size 10, US size 3) knitting needles
• One pair of 4 mm (UK size 8, US size 6) knitting needles
• Six buttons for the cardigan front closure

The pattern uses two needle sizes to create different fabric densities. The 4 mm needles are used for the main fabric and establish the working tension of 22 stitches and 30 rows to 10 cm. The 3.25 mm needles are typically employed for ribbed edgings or cuffs to create a more elastic, fitted finish.

Tension and Gauge

Achieving correct tension is essential for this project. The pattern specifies 22 stitches and 30 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over stockinette stitch using 4 mm needles. Knitters are advised to test tension before beginning the project. If the test swatch is too loose, a finer needle should be used; if too tight, a larger needle should be substituted. Matching the stated tension ensures the finished cardigan will achieve the intended measurements and proper fit.

Sizing Information

The pattern is graded across six sizes to accommodate a wide range of body measurements. Bust measurements to fit range from 76–81 cm through 127–132 cm, with corresponding finished bust measurements providing approximately 10 cm of positive ease in smaller sizes. Length to shoulder shaping varies from 54 cm in the smallest size to 60 cm in the largest size, allowing for proportional garment length across the size range.

Design Considerations

The alternating lacy medallion pattern creates a visually interesting focal point while maintaining the structural integrity of a wearable cardigan. The lace elements are balanced throughout the design, and the stockinette stitch base provides stability and definition for the medallion motifs. The six-button closure is a classic cardigan feature that allows for adjustable fit and styling versatility.