Full Circle Cardigan

Full Circle Cardigan by Triona Murphy

What is Being Made

The Full Circle Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Triona Murphy. This garment is available in eight sizes ranging from XS to 3X, with finished bust measurements from 30.5 inches (77.5 cm) for the smallest size up to 52 inches (132 cm) for the largest size. The cardigan shown in the pattern is knitted in size M with no additional ease, making it a fitted style suitable for various body types and preferences.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This cardigan is constructed using fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate-level crafters. The pattern employs circular needles as the primary tool, which allows for seamless or nearly seamless construction and the ability to work in the round where applicable. The use of double-pointed needles as an alternative indicates sections that may require smaller circumference knitting, typically for ribbing, cuffs, or other detailed finishing work.

Stitches and Stitch Work

While the specific stitch patterns are not detailed in the provided content, the intermediate difficulty rating and the construction method using circular and double-pointed needles suggest the pattern incorporates standard knitting stitches and techniques. The cardigan likely features ribbed edgings and cuffs for structure and fit, which are characteristic of well-constructed cardigans in this weight category.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Recommended Yarn: Araucania Toconao, a 100% merino wool yarn in color 512 (Cactus Green). The yarn is classified as heavy worsted or Aran weight, with approximately 139 yards per 100-gram skein according to the label, though the pattern notes that actual yardage in skeins ranges from 150 to 170 yards.

Yardage Requirements: The total yardage needed varies by size:

• XS: 1025 yards (937 meters)
• S: 1100 yards (1005 meters)
• M: 1200 yards (1097 meters)
• L: 1250 yards (1143 meters)
• 1X: 1300 yards (1189 meters)
• 2X: 1400 yards (1280 meters)
• 3X: 1450 yards (1326 meters)

Needle Requirements: The pattern calls for US #8 (5.0 mm) needles in two configurations. A 29-inch or longer circular needle serves as the primary needle for the main body of the cardigan, while a set of four or five US #8 (5.0 mm) double-pointed needles is recommended for smaller circumference sections. Knitters should always check their gauge and adjust needle size as needed to achieve the correct tension for proper fit.

Yarn Substitution Notes

The pattern designer notes that the yardage information printed on Araucania Toconao labels may be inaccurate, with actual skeins containing between 150 and 170 yards rather than the stated 139 yards. When substituting yarn, crafters should select a heavy worsted or Aran weight yarn and calculate yardage based on the specific requirements for their chosen size to ensure they have sufficient yarn to complete the project.