Markdale

Markdale Seamless Cardigan by Laura Chau

What is Being Made

Markdale is a breezy, seamless cardigan designed for layering over dresses and tees. This intermediate-level knitting project features elbow-length lace sleeves and a casual, flattering fit. The cardigan is worked primarily in stockinette stitch with decorative lace bands, offering a sophisticated yet relaxed aesthetic. Finished bust measurements range from 31.5 inches to 51 inches, accommodating a wide range of sizes. The garment is designed to be worn with -2 to 0 inches of ease at the bust, allowing for a close, tailored fit.

Construction Technique

Markdale employs a seamless raglan yoke construction method that minimizes finishing work. The lower body is worked flat from the hem to the underarm, then the piece is joined with the sleeves to work the seamless raglan yoke in the round. This hybrid approach combines the ease of flat knitting for the body with the efficiency of circular knitting for the yoke. A simple round neck and ribbed bands complete the cardigan, providing clean, professional finishing details.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used throughout Markdale is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric base. Complementing the stockinette are lace bands that add visual interest and breathability to the design. These lace elements are described as easy to work and surprisingly quick to knit, making them accessible to intermediate knitters. Ribbed bands at the neckline and cuff edges provide elasticity and structure to the finished garment.

Yarn and Materials

Markdale is designed for fingering weight yarn, classified as 3-ply weight. The pattern is shown knitted in Lorna's Laces Shepherd Sock, a high-quality fingering weight yarn composed of 80% superwash merino wool and 20% nylon. This yarn blend offers durability and easy care through its superwash treatment. Each skein contains 430 yards (400 meters) and weighs 3.5 ounces (100 grams). The pattern is efficient with yardage, making it possible to complete the cardigan using just a few skeins. The photographed sample was worked in the China Blue colorway in size 37.5 inches with approximately one inch of negative ease.

Sizing and Fit Guidance

Ten finished bust sizes are available, ranging from 31.5 inches to 51 inches, ensuring options for diverse body types. Laura Chau recommends measuring a sweater that fits well and selecting the size closest to that measurement for optimal results, rather than relying on typical garment sizing. The sample shown measures 37.5 inches in finished bust circumference.