Asterion Cardigan

Asterion Cardigan by Corrine Walcher

What is Being Made

The Asterion Cardigan is a top-down, lightweight raglan sleeve cardigan designed by independent knitwear designer Corrine Walcher. This garment features an easily memorized lace skirt and is fully customizable to individual sizing. The cardigan is available in six finished chest sizes ranging from 32 inches to 52 inches, with corresponding lengths from 13 to 15 inches from cast on to underarm. The design encourages a try-on-as-you-go approach, allowing knitters to stop increasing when the fit is perfect for their body.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Asterion Cardigan employs several key knitting techniques suited to intermediate-level knitters:

• Top-down construction: The cardigan is knitted from the top down, beginning at the neckline and working toward the hem. This method allows for easy fitting adjustments and the ability to try on the garment during the knitting process.
• Raglan sleeve shaping: The sleeves are increased using raglan-style increases, which create diagonal lines from the neckline to the underarms. This classic shaping technique distributes increases evenly across the body and sleeves.
• Circular knitting in the round: The body is worked in the round using circular needles, creating a seamless construction. Knitters may use their preferred method for working small circumferences in the round for the sleeves.
• Lace pattern: The skirt section features an easily memorized lace pattern, incorporating yarn overs and decreases to create decorative openwork.

Stitches Used

The Asterion Cardigan utilizes fundamental knitting stitches appropriate for a lightweight cardigan:

• Stockinette stitch: The primary stitch used throughout the body and sleeves, worked in the round to create smooth, even fabric.
• Lace stitches: The skirt incorporates lace pattern work using yarn overs and decreases to create an open, decorative texture that complements the lightweight nature of the garment.
• Ribbing: Implied finishing details typical of cardigan construction.

Materials: Yarn, Needles, and Notions

Yarn: The pattern calls for Avalon Springs Farm Love Potion, a Merino and bamboo blend yarn. This fiber combination provides breathability and drape ideal for a lightweight cardigan. The yarn is available in 4 oz. skeins with 555 yards per skein. Yardage requirements vary by size: 1 skein for the smallest size (32 inches) and 2 skeins for all larger sizes (36 inches and above). The 40-inch sample used 835 yards total. The pattern accommodates both 3-ply and 4-ply yarn weights, offering flexibility in yarn selection.

Needles: US #4 (3.5mm) circular needles are required. A 32-inch circular needle or longer is recommended for the body of the top, with larger sizes potentially benefiting from even longer needles to accommodate increased circumference. Additional needles of the same size are needed to work small circumferences in the round using your preferred method for sleeve knitting. Needle size may be adjusted to achieve the specified gauge.

Notions and Accessories: Essential notions include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and raglan increases, and waste yarn or stitch holders for securing stitches. A yarn needle is required for weaving in ends upon completion.

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 24 stitches and 32 rows per 4 inches in blocked stockinette stitch. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements. The garment is designed to be blocked after completion to set the stitches and enhance the drape of the lightweight fabric.