Valley Yarns Emma Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Emma Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Valley Yarns Emma Cardigan is a women's cardigan sweater designed by Elizabeth Vindedahl. This garment is constructed using a bottom-up, seamed approach and features decorative lace patterning throughout. The cardigan is available in five finished chest measurements: 40.5", 44", 46", 49.5", and 52.5", making it suitable for a range of sizes from small to extra-large.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques:

• Bottom-up construction: The cardigan is worked from the lower edge upward, beginning with the back piece and continuing through the front panels
• Worked flat: All pieces are knitted flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for easier stitch manipulation and shaping
• Lace stitch patterning: Decorative lace stitches are worked throughout the body of the garment, creating an elegant, openwork design
• Seamed construction: Individual pieces (back and fronts) are sewn together using mattress stitch or similar seaming techniques to create the finished garment
• Shaping techniques: Strategic decreases and increases are incorporated to create waist definition and proper fit. The back features decreases at the sides every eighth row, followed by increases to create gentle shaping
• Armhole and neck shaping: Bind-off decreases are used to create proper armhole depth and neckline shaping
• Applied I-cord edge: An I-cord edging is applied to the finished garment for a polished, professional appearance

Stitches Used

The Emma Cardigan features lace stitch as the primary stitch pattern. Lace stitches typically combine yarn overs with decreases to create decorative openwork patterns. The pattern instructions indicate that lace stitch is worked consistently across the back and front pieces, with specific row counts for the initial lace section before continuing the pattern through the body of the garment. The use of lace stitch adds visual interest and creates a sophisticated, feminine aesthetic while maintaining breathability in the finished fabric.

Materials and Gauge

The Valley Yarns Emma Cardigan is designed to be worked in Valley Yarns Northampton, a 100% wool yarn with a yardage of 214 yards per 100-gram skein. The project requires 6 to 9 skeins depending on the finished size, with the sample shown in color 26 Raspberry Heather. Knitters should use US size 7 needles to achieve the correct gauge, or the size needed to obtain the specified gauge for the pattern. US size 8 double-pointed needles and a spare circular needle are required for the applied I-cord edge detail that finishes the cardigan. Proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished chest measurements and overall fit of this garment.