Product Description
Pronounced “eye-oh-LANTH-ee”. Iolanthe was banished from fairydom for marrying a mortal. Thankfully, she took some really great handknits with her in exile:) This spritely cardigan is constructed seamlessly from the top-down with asymmetrical fronts and buttonholes that are created simultaneously with the bodice. Wear it with as many or as few buttons as you like without worrying about buttonhole placement. The collar is knit separately as a tiny shawl & is sewn to the neckline after blocking.
I recommend either up to an inch of negative ease to an inch of positive ease. Both the grey and purple garments are worn with zero ease (ie. measuring the same as the model's bust measurement). Sleeve construction is a modified raglan: Shaping begins as a typical raglan at the top, but then adds stitches only to the sleeve-side of the raglan markers for several rows. These "Sleeve Only" increases are them followed by rows that only add stitches to the "body sides" of the raglan.
Iolanthe Asymmetrical Cardigan by Mary Annarella
What Is Being Made
Iolanthe is a uniquely designed cardigan that incorporates an integrated small shawl element, inspired by the desire to wear a shawl while maintaining secure placement on the shoulders. This asymmetrical cardigan merges practical wearability with whimsical design, drawing its name from a fairy character in literature. The garment is suitable for intermediate-level knitters seeking a creative and customizable project.
Construction Method
This cardigan features top-down seamless construction, a technique that allows knitters to try on the garment as they progress through the pattern. This method eliminates the need for seaming pieces together after completion, resulting in a more unified and comfortable finished garment. The seamless approach also provides flexibility for fit adjustments during the knitting process.
Design Features and Customization Options
- Asymmetrical shawl integration sewn directly to the sweater body
- Multiple sleeve length options: short, three-quarter (¾), or long sleeves
- Button plackets worked simultaneously with the body during construction
- Flexible button placement allowing knitters to add as many or as few buttons as desired
- Option to modify button placement after completion if preferences change
Stitches and Techniques
The pattern employs standard knitting stitches and techniques appropriate for intermediate-level crafters. Top-down seamless construction requires proficiency with in-the-round knitting methods and shaping techniques. The integrated button plackets are worked concurrently with the body, demonstrating advanced construction planning.
Materials Required
This project uses 4-ply yarn weight, a medium-weight yarn suitable for creating garments with good drape and structure. Knitters will need appropriate knitting needles sized for 4-ply yarn, as well as buttons for closure. The pattern includes guidance on fit modifications detailed in the "A Few Thoughts About Fit" section on page 5.
Pattern Details
Designed by independent designer Mary Annarella in 2012, this downloadable PDF pattern provides comprehensive instructions for creating a distinctive cardigan. The pattern encourages customization and personal fit adjustments, making it suitable for knitters who wish to tailor the garment to their specific measurements and preferences.
Specifications
| Brand: | Independent Designer |
| Yarn Weight: | 4 Ply |
| Pages: | 1 |
| Designer: | Mary Annarella |
| Craft: | Knitting |
| Format: | Downloadable PDF |
| Languages: | English |
| Number of Patterns: | 1 |
| Skill Level: | Intermediate |
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