Stacy Charles Fine Yarns Mackenzie Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Stacy Charles Fine Yarns Mackenzie Cardigan

Garment Overview

The Mackenzie Cardigan is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Rosemary Drysdale. This versatile piece is constructed using a bottom-up, seamed construction method and features elegant lace detailing throughout. The cardigan is available in six sizes ranging from Small to 3X, with finished bust measurements from 34½ inches (87.5 cm) to 57 inches (145 cm) and lengths from 25 inches (63.5 cm) to 27½ inches (70 cm).

Construction Techniques

The Mackenzie Cardigan is worked flat on straight needles using a bottom-up construction method, meaning the garment is knitted from the lower edge upward. The pieces are seamed together after completion, creating clean, professional-looking seams. This approach allows for straightforward shaping and makes it easier to try on the garment as you work.

The pattern incorporates lace techniques as a primary design element. The lace patterning is integrated throughout the body of the cardigan, creating visual interest and an elegant aesthetic. The pattern uses a ribbed lace stitch pattern that combines knit and purl stitches with decreases and yarn overs to create the lace effect.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Mackenzie Cardigan employs several fundamental knitting stitches and techniques:

• Stockinette stitch (St st) – Used for sections where the ribbed lace pattern cannot be worked, such as around decreases
• Ribbed lace pattern – The primary stitch pattern featuring a combination of knit stitches, purl stitches, yarn overs, and decreases (k2tog and ssk) to create the lace texture
• K1-f/b (knit one front and back) – An increase technique used for shaping
• K2tog (knit two together) – A right-leaning decrease used in the lace pattern
• Ssk (slip, slip, knit) – A left-leaning decrease used in the lace pattern
• Grafting – An advanced finishing technique used to join stitches with an invisible seam, creating a seamless appearance where needed

Materials and Tools

The Mackenzie Cardigan is knitted with Stacy Charles Fine Yarns GEMMA, a high-quality yarn composed of 63% recycled cotton, 27% recycled polyester, and 10% polyamide. This fiber blend creates a durable, breathable fabric suitable for a cardigan. The yarn is available in color #231 gravel, a neutral tone that works well for various styling options.

Yarn requirements vary by size: Small requires 7 balls, Medium requires 8 balls, Large requires 9 balls, XL requires 10 balls, 2X requires 10 balls, and 3X requires 11 balls. Each ball contains 1.75 ounces (50 grams) and provides 137 yards (125 meters) of yarn.

The pattern calls for size 7 (4.5 mm) needles or the size needed to obtain proper gauge. Additional tools include stitch markers to denote pattern sections and shaping points, stitch holders to temporarily hold stitches during construction, and a yarn needle for seaming and grafting.

Gauge and Fit

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit. The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 stitches and 22 rows equals 4 inches (10 cm) in the ribbed lace pattern. Knitters are strongly advised to take time to check gauge before beginning the project, as gauge variations will affect the final measurements of the cardigan.

Pattern Structure

The cardigan begins with a cast-on edge worked in ribbing for 5 rows, which creates a neat, elastic lower edge. The main body is then worked in the ribbed lace pattern with edge stitches (one knit stitch on each side) framing the lace. The pattern is worked straight until the piece reaches the armhole depth at approximately 17½ inches (44.5 cm) from the beginning.

Armhole shaping is accomplished through bind-offs at the beginning of rows followed by decreases worked on right-side rows. The number of stitches bound off and the frequency of decreases vary by