Classic Elite Yarns Elva Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Classic Elite Yarns Elva Cardigan: Knitted V-Neck Design with Lace Panel

What is Being Made

The Elva is a v-neck cardigan featuring a decorative lace panel across the mid-section. This intermediate-level knitting project is designed by Fiona Ellis and was originally published in the Seaside Village 1501 printed collection. The cardigan is available in six sizes ranging from XS to 2XL, with finished bust measurements from 30¾ inches to 49½ inches and lengths from 28¼ inches to 32¾ inches.

Construction Techniques

The Elva cardigan is constructed using several key knitting techniques:

• Bottom-up construction: The piece is worked from the cast-on edge upward, allowing for easy adjustments to length during knitting
• Worked flat: The cardigan is knitted on circular needles in flat rows rather than in the round, making it accessible for knitters who prefer traditional flat knitting methods
• Seamed construction: Pieces are joined together using seaming techniques to create the finished garment
• Lace integration: Two distinct lace charts (Chart A and Chart B) are worked into the body of the cardigan to create the featured lace panel across the mid-section

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Elva employs multiple stitch patterns to create visual interest and structure:

• Seed Stitch: Used for the ribbed edging at the cast-on, this reversible stitch creates a textured, non-curling border. The pattern includes instructions for both even and odd numbers of stitches, with alternating knit and purl stitches on every row
• Stockinette Stitch (St st): The primary stitch used for the main body sections between and after the lace panels, creating a smooth, classic knit fabric
• Chart A Lace Pattern: A 13-stitch repeat pattern worked over 8 rows, creating the first decorative lace section. This section measures 4¾ inches and is repeated multiple times across the width
• Chart B Lace Pattern: An 11-stitch repeat pattern worked over 30 rows, forming the main lace panel. This section measures 3½ inches and features cable decreases (C4Bdec and C4Fdec), yarn overs (yo), and knit-together decreases (k2tog) to create openwork lace motifs

Materials

The Elva cardigan is knitted with Liberty Wool Light by Classic Elite Yarns, a 100% washable wool yarn. Each 50-gram ball yields 200 yards of yarn. The project requires 7 to 11 balls depending on size (7 balls for XS and S, 8 balls for M, 9 balls for L, 10 balls for XL, and 11 balls for 2XL). The yarn is worked on a US 4 (3.5 mm) circular knitting needle in either 24-inch or 32-inch length, depending on knitter preference and garment size. The sample shown in the pattern is knitted in color 6647 Stormy.

Skill Level and Gauge

This pattern is rated as intermediate skill level, making it suitable for knitters with some experience. Obtaining proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements, and knitters are advised to knit a gauge swatch before beginning the project.