Classic Elite Yarns Argus Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Classic Elite Yarns Argus Cardigan

Garment Overview

The Argus is a sophisticated lace cardigan designed for warmer weather, originally published in Birdsong 1502. This intermediate-level knitting project features a distinctive fluttered edge created through lace patterning and contrasting color work. The cardigan is worked in a bottom-up construction method with seamed pieces, making it an excellent choice for knitters looking to develop their lace and color-work skills.

Construction Method

This cardigan is worked flat on straight needles or circular needles in flat rows, then seamed together to create the finished garment. The bottom-up approach means you begin knitting at the lower edge and progress upward toward the neckline, allowing for easy adjustments to length as you work.

Lace Techniques

The Argus showcases beautiful lace stitch work as its primary decorative element. The pattern features a repeating 16-row border pattern worked over a multiple of 8 stitches. Key lace techniques include:

• Yarn overs (yo) that create deliberate holes and openwork throughout the fabric
• Decreases using k2tog (knit two together) and ssk (slip, slip, knit) to balance yarn overs and maintain stitch count
• Stitch manipulation where yarn overs from previous rows are worked into subsequent rows, creating dimensional texture and the characteristic fluttered edge

Stripe Pattern

The cardigan incorporates contrasting color stripes that add visual interest to the lace design. The pattern begins with a contrasting color (CC) for the initial cast-on and ruffle section before transitioning to the main color (MC), creating a striking color block effect that highlights the delicate lace work.

Ruffle Detail

A distinctive ruffle edge is created at the lower edge of the cardigan, adding movement and a playful aesthetic. This ruffle is worked as an integral part of the bottom-up construction, beginning immediately after the cast-on row.

Stitch Abbreviations and Techniques

The pattern utilizes standard knitting abbreviations and techniques:

• k (knit) and p (purl) for basic stitches
• k2tog (knit two together) – a right-leaning decrease
• ssk (slip, slip, knit) – a left-leaning decrease that pairs with yarn overs for balanced lace
• yo (yarn over) – creates the openwork holes characteristic of lace patterns
• RS (right side) and WS (wrong side) designations for directional stitch work

Sizing and Gauge

The Argus is available in six sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, and 2XL, with stitch counts ranging from 157 stitches for the smallest size to 285 stitches for the largest. The pattern shown is in size S, making it easy to reference finished dimensions and adjust sizing as needed.

Materials Required

This project requires yarn in two colors – a main color (MC) and a contrasting color (CC) – from Classic Elite Yarns. Knitters will need knitting needles appropriate to the yarn weight specified in the full pattern (needle size information appears in the complete pattern details). The seamed construction method means you'll also need a tapestry needle for finishing.

Skill Level

Rated as Intermediate, the Argus is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle lace patterns. The combination of lace techniques, color changes, and seaming requires attention to detail and familiarity with reading charts and managing multiple techniques simultaneously.

Design Credit

The Argus cardigan was designed by Fiona Ellis and originally appeared in the Birdsong 1502 collection, a printed compilation of designs from Classic Elite Yarns.