Classic Elite Yarns Viewpoints A Time to Crochet Pattern

Classic Elite Yarns Viewpoints A Time to Crochet - Biella Surplice Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Biella is a richly-colored surplice cardigan designed by Kathy North, originally published in A Time to Crochet 1605. This garment features an elegant surplice front closure and decorative openwork trim, creating a sophisticated layering piece suitable for various occasions. The cardigan showcases the beautiful color blending capabilities of Classic Elite Yarns Camelot, with the openwork detailing adding visual interest and a refined aesthetic to the finished garment.

Techniques Used

This cardigan is constructed using a bottom-up, seamed, and worked-flat approach, meaning the pieces are crocheted flat in individual sections and then assembled together. The garment is worked in separate pieces—the back, fronts, and sleeves are created independently before being joined at the shoulders and side seams. A distinctive construction feature involves working the sleeves from the armhole downward after the body is assembled. Front shaping is achieved through strategic decreases positioned next to double crochet post stitches within the openwork band edging, creating a tailored fit. After the main body assembly is complete, an openwork edging is applied to the hemline on the opposite side of the foundation chain, adding a polished finishing detail.

Stitches Used

The Biella cardigan employs several fundamental crochet stitches combined to create its distinctive appearance:

• Single Crochet (sc) – Used throughout the foundation rows and as structural elements within the pattern
• Double Crochet (dc) – Forms the main fabric base and appears in multiple variations including standard double crochets and double crochet post stitches
• Slip Stitch (sl st) – Used for armhole shaping and joining pieces together
• Chain Stitch (ch) – Creates the foundation and openwork spaces throughout the design
• Wheatsheaf Pattern – The signature stitch pattern featuring a multiple of 5 stitches plus 2, with a foundation chain setup. This four-row repeat pattern creates the openwork effect by combining groups of 5 double crochets in chain spaces with single crochets, producing a distinctive textured and airy appearance ideal for the trim and decorative elements

Materials

This pattern is designed to be worked with Classic Elite Yarns Camelot, a yarn known for its rich, blended hues that showcase beautifully in openwork designs. The pattern accommodates multiple sizes with varying yardage requirements, indicated by the foundation chain options ranging from 49 to 79 chains depending on desired finished dimensions. Standard crochet hooks appropriate to the yarn weight are used throughout, with the specific hook size typically determined by the yarn manufacturer's recommendations to achieve proper gauge and fabric drape for the surplice cardigan silhouette.