Kaibara

Kaibara Lace Pullover by Linda Marveng

What is Being Made

Kaibara is a flowery lace-adorned A-line pullover with short sleeves, designed by independent designer Linda Marveng. Named after Kaibara Ekken, the father of botany in Japan, this garment celebrates botanical inspiration through its lace pattern work. The pullover features an elegant A-line silhouette that widens toward the hip, making it ideal for summer wear or special occasions. Available in nine sizes ranging from XS to 5XL, with finished bust measurements from 82 cm (32.25") to 166 cm (65.25"), this design offers inclusive sizing for various body types.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

Kaibara is knitted in separate pieces and then seamed together, a construction method that allows for precise fit and shaping. This piece-by-piece approach is particularly effective for achieving the garment's distinctive A-line shaping at the hips. To showcase the intricate lace pattern, the designer strategically uses stockinette stitch for the remaining sections of the pullover, creating visual contrast and allowing the lace motif to be the focal point of the design.

Stitches Used

• Lace Stitch: Decorative flowery lace pattern that adorns the pullover and serves as the primary visual feature
• Stockinette Stitch: Used throughout the non-lace sections to provide a smooth, refined background that allows the lace to shine

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Kaibara is worked in Como Silk from Handweavers Studio, a drapey and lustrous yarn in the sport weight category. Sport weight yarn is a lightweight option that creates delicate, refined fabric—ideal for a summer garment. The silk fiber content provides exceptional drape and a luxurious sheen, enhancing both the lace pattern visibility and the overall elegance of the finished piece. The specific yarn choice contributes to the garment's suitability for warm-weather wear and formal occasions.

Difficulty Level and Skill Requirements

This pattern is rated as experienced level, reflecting the complexity of working lace stitches and managing the construction of a multi-piece garment. Knitters tackling Kaibara should be comfortable reading lace charts, managing yarn overs and decreases, and executing seaming techniques for a polished finish.

Design Details and Finished Measurements

The pullover offers generous length options, with finished lengths ranging from 60 cm (23.5") in XS to 68 cm (26.75") in 5XL. Hip measurements range from 94 cm (37") to 184 cm (72.5"), accommodating the A-line silhouette that gradually widens from bust to hip. Short sleeves measure approximately 24–25 cm in length, depending on size, making this an ideal choice for layering or warm-weather styling.