Lydia

Lydia Cardigan by Kristen TenDyke

What Is Being Made

Lydia is a knitted cardigan designed by Kristen TenDyke and available as a downloadable PDF pattern from Caterpillar Knits. This garment is suitable for beginners and comes in seven sizes ranging from 29½ inches to 54½ inches bust circumference, making it accessible for a wide range of body types. The cardigan shown in the pattern photographs measures 33 inches (92.5 cm) in finished bust circumference.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Lydia cardigan employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for beginner-level crafters. The pattern incorporates increases using both left-slanting and right-slanting make-one methods (M1L and M1R), which are essential shaping techniques for creating fitted garments. Knitters will also use knit two together (k2tog) decreases to shape the piece. The pattern utilizes markers to help track pattern repeats and construction sections, and includes slip stitches for seamless transitions. The construction method involves working in rounds and rows, as indicated by the pattern abbreviations, allowing for flexible construction options.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Lydia cardigan is constructed using basic knitting stitches that form the foundation of most knit garments. The primary stitches include knit and purl stitches, which are combined to create the fabric structure. The pattern incorporates pattern repeats (abbreviated as rep in the pattern) that create texture and visual interest throughout the cardigan. Shaping is accomplished through strategic placement of increases and decreases, including M1L (make 1 left slanting) and M1R (make 1 right slanting) increases, as well as k2tog (knit 2 together) decreases.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Lydia cardigan is designed to be worked in Quince & Co Sparrow, a premium yarn made from 100% organic linen. This fiber choice reflects the eco-conscious philosophy of Caterpillar Knits. Each hank weighs 50 grams and provides approximately 168 yards of yardage. Depending on the size being knitted, the pattern requires between 5 and 10 hanks of yarn, with yardage totaling between 840 and 1,420 yards depending on the finished size selected. The pattern specifies yarn weight and yardage requirements for all seven sizes, allowing knitters to substitute alternative linen or linen-blend yarns of similar weight and yardage if desired.

Pattern Format and Designer Information

Lydia is an independent designer pattern created by Kristen TenDyke and published by Caterpillar Knits. The pattern is available as a downloadable PDF file, making it immediately accessible for digital viewing and printing. The PDF is formatted with sustainability in mind, including a note encouraging knitters to print only when necessary, use recycled paper, and print on both sides to minimize environmental impact—consistent with the brand's earth-friendly philosophy.