Juniper Moon Farm El Seyf Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Juniper Moon Farm El Seyf - The Summer Collection: Multi-Wrap Cardigan

What Is Being Made

El Seyf is a versatile multi-wrap cardigan designed by Mari Chiba that offers multiple styling options for the wearer. This garment is engineered to be worn in various configurations, making it a flexible addition to a summer wardrobe. The cardigan is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to 3X, with finished bust measurements from 30 inches (76 cm) to 54 inches (137 cm) and lengths ranging from 46 inches (117 cm) to 51 inches (130 cm).

Knitting Techniques

El Seyf is constructed using top-down seamless construction, a modern knitting approach that allows the knitter to try on the garment as it develops and adjust the fit in real time. The cardigan begins at the neckline and progresses downward toward the hem, eliminating the need for seaming pieces together after completion.

The garment features raglan sleeves, which are shaped using strategic increases placed on either side of marked stitch positions. This classic sleeve cap design creates a smooth, comfortable fit across the shoulders and upper arm area. The body is worked in the round initially using a circular needle, then the sleeves are cast on using the backwards loop method, allowing for seamless integration of the sleeve stitches into the main body.

The construction involves worked in the round and worked flat techniques, providing versatility in the knitting process. The cardigan opening is finished with a garter stitch border, which creates a textured, non-curling edge that frames the front opening and adds visual interest to the finished piece.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch (St st) - The primary fabric stitch used throughout the body and sleeves, creating a smooth, classic knit surface
• Garter stitch - Used for the cardigan band and finishing edges, providing a reversible, textured border
• M1L (Make 1 Left) - A left-leaning increase used for raglan shaping and body expansion
• M1R (Make 1 Right) - A right-leaning increase used for raglan shaping and body expansion
• Knit (k) and Purl (p) - Foundation stitches that form the basis of all knit and purl combinations

Materials and Specifications

This pattern calls for Juniper Moon Farm Zooey yarn in colorway #07 Cardamom. The yardage requirement ranges from 5 balls for the smallest size (XS) to 9 balls for the largest size (3X), accommodating various gauges and finished measurements.

The recommended needles are US 5 (3.75 mm) double-point needles and a US 5 (3.75 mm) 32-inch (81 cm) circular needle, or whatever size is necessary to achieve the specified gauge. The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements.

Additional notions required include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, stitch markers for tracking raglan increases and shaping points, scrap yarn or a stitch holder for securing stitches during construction, and one snap for fastening the cardigan wrap closure.

Pattern Structure and Design Details

The El Seyf cardigan is structured with a straightforward increase pattern that builds the garment systematically. The initial cast-on of 72 to 85 stitches (depending on size) is worked with paired increases on alternating rows, expanding the fabric to accommodate the full bust measurement. The raglan shaping employs a four-point increase system, with increases placed symmetrically around marked positions to create balanced sleeve caps.

The sleeves are integrated into the body through a cast-on technique rather than traditional seaming, which maintains the seamless aesthetic and reduces finishing work. The garter stitch border provides a polished edge that prevents curling and adds structural definition to the cardigan opening, while the single snap closure allows for the versatile wrapping options that define this design.