Classic Elite Yarns Hopewell Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Classic Elite Yarns Hopewell Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Hopewell is a relaxed-fit cardigan featuring a deep V-neck and a decorative sewn-on lace border. This intermediate-level knitting project is available in five sizes: XS, S, M, L, and XL, with finished bust measurements ranging from 32¾ inches to 42 inches. The cardigan is fastened with three 5/8-inch buttons and offers a sophisticated, timeless design originally published in Arietta 1608, a printed collection of designs by Classic Elite Yarns.

Construction Techniques

The Hopewell cardigan is constructed using a bottom-up, seamless approach with strategic shaping and divided sections. The lower body is worked in one continuous piece to the underarms, then divided for working the back and fronts separately to the shoulders. This method minimizes seaming while allowing for precise shaping at key areas.

The sleeves are worked in the round to the underarms using circular needles, then transitioned to working back and forth in rows for the sleeve cap shaping. The front band is worked in two separate halves, with each half picked up between the front bands where the lower edge and center back neck are overlapped. The two halves are then seamed together at the center back neck, creating a clean, professional finish.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout the body is stockinette stitch (St st), providing a smooth, classic fabric base. The signature design element is the Lace Border pattern, a 16-row repeat that increases from 12 stitches to 16 stitches and then decreases back to 12 stitches.

The Lace Border pattern incorporates several fundamental lace techniques:

• Yarn overs (yo) create the openwork characteristic of lace
• Knit two together (k2tog) decreases that balance the yarn overs
• Slip stitches (sl st) worked purlwise with yarn in front (wyif) at the beginning of wrong-side rows for edge definition

The lace pattern expands and contracts symmetrically, with increases occurring in the first half of the repeat (rows 1–8) and corresponding decreases in the second half (rows 9–16). This creates an elegant, organic border that adds visual interest while maintaining structural integrity.

Gauge and Sizing

The recommended gauge is 21 stitches and 29 rows per 4 inches in stockinette stitch using the larger needles. For the Lace Border pattern specifically, 32 rows (2 pattern repeats) measure approximately 4¼ inches in height when slightly stretched, also using the larger needles. Achieving accurate gauge is essential for proper fit, as the cardigan's finished length is 22½ inches or longer depending on size.

Materials and Supplies

The Hopewell cardigan requires knitting needles in two sizes (larger needles for the main fabric and Lace Border, with a smaller size implied for ribbing or edge work, though specific needle sizes are not listed in the provided content). Additional notions include stitch holders for holding stitches during construction, stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and increases, removable markers for noting pattern rows, and three 5/8-inch buttons for closure.

While specific yarn fiber content and yardage are not detailed in the provided excerpt, Classic Elite Yarns specializes in high-quality yarns suitable for lace and refined garment construction. The gauge specification of 21 stitches per 4 inches suggests a sport to DK weight yarn, which provides the appropriate drape and stitch definition for both the stockinette body and the intricate lace border.

Design Details

Designed by Tian Foley, the Hopewell cardigan balances structure with elegance. The deep V-neck creates a flattering neckline, while the sewn-on lace border adds a refined finishing touch that frames the front opening. The relaxed fit through the body provides comfort and wearability, making this cardigan suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone piece. The overlapped front bands and center back neck seaming ensure a professional appearance and secure button placement.