Classic Elite Yarns Valerian Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Classic Elite Yarns Valerian Cardigan

What Is Being Made

The Valerian is an allover lace stitch cardigan designed by Tonia Barry and originally published in In Bloom 1804, a printed collection from Classic Elite Yarns. This garment is an open-front cardigan featuring intricate lace patterning throughout, available in six sizes ranging from XS to 2XL with finished bust measurements from 35¾ inches to 54¼ inches and lengths from 19¼ inches to 23¼ inches.

Construction Technique

The Valerian is worked bottom-up in a modular construction method. The lower body is knitted in one piece working flat in rows to the underarms, where the piece then divides into three separate sections for the upper body. Sleeve stitches are cast on at each end of the back stitches, and the upper back with back sleeves are worked to the shoulder line. For each front section, sleeve stitches are cast on at the side edge, then the upper front and front sleeve are worked to the shoulders, creating a seamless integrated construction.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Valerian employs two primary stitch patterns:

• 2 x 2 Rib: A foundational ribbed stitch worked over a multiple of 4 stitches plus 2, alternating knit and purl columns. Row 1 (right side) is worked as K2, *p2, k2; repeat from *. Row 2 (wrong side) is worked as P2, *k2, p2; repeat from *. This rib is used for the lower edge and measures approximately 1½ inches in height.
• Lace Stitch: An allover lace pattern worked over a multiple of 10 stitches with a 12-row repeat. The lace chart includes essential decrease techniques such as ssk (slip, slip, knit), k2tog (knit two together), and s2kp (slip 2 stitches together, knit 1, pass slipped stitches over), paired with yarn overs to create the characteristic openwork design. During shaping, if insufficient stitches remain to complete a decrease with its corresponding yarn over or a double decrease with both yarn overs, those stitches are worked in Stockinette stitch instead.

Materials

The Valerian is designed to be worked with Calista by Classic Elite Yarns. The pattern calls for two needle sizes: a smaller needle for the 2 x 2 Rib ribbing at the lower edge, and a larger needle for the main body and lace stitch sections. The lower body begins with 202 to 306 cast-on stitches depending on size, with adjustments made during the transition from ribbing to the lace pattern.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated for Experienced knitters, reflecting the complexity of working lace stitches with multiple decreases and yarn overs, managing the three-section upper body construction, and executing shaping while maintaining lace pattern integrity.