Willow & Lark Lucy Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Willow & Lark Lucy Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Lucy Cardigan is a ribbed cable cardigan designed as part of the Wonder Collection. This fitted cardigan combines the luxurious lightness of mohair with a classic cable knit design, creating an understated garment that delivers relaxed style. The cardigan is available in six sizes, ranging from bust measurements of 81cm (32 inches) to 107cm (42 inches), with a finished length to shoulder of approximately 51–56cm (20–22 inches).

Materials and Fiber Content

This pattern is designed specifically for Willow & Lark Plume yarn, a luxury blend of 70% mohair and 30% silk. The yarn is worked at 25g per ball, with yardage requirements ranging from 6 to 7 balls depending on size. The pattern recommends working with the specified Plume yarn to achieve the intended drape, weight, and appearance shown in the design photographs. Alternative colorways are suggested, including Toffee (colorway 325) and Windermere (colorway 321).

Tools and Equipment

• One pair of 3.25mm (UK 10 / US 3) knitting needles
• Cable needle for working cable stitches
• Six buttons for the cardigan front closure

Techniques Used

The Lucy Cardigan employs several intermediate-level knitting techniques to create its distinctive appearance and structure:

• Cables – A standard braid cable pattern forms the primary decorative element throughout the cardigan. The cable panel measures 7.5cm (3 inches) wide across 33 stitches, creating a bold focal point on the garment.
• Bottom-up construction – The cardigan is knitted from the lower edge upward toward the shoulders and neckline, allowing for easy fitting adjustments and a natural progression of the design.
• Worked flat – All pieces are knitted flat on straight needles rather than in the round, producing seams that require finishing.
• Seamed assembly – Individual pieces (front panels, back, and sleeves) are knitted separately and then sewn together using seaming techniques, creating clean, professional-looking joins.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Lucy Cardigan features stocking stitch as the primary stitch throughout most of the garment, providing a smooth, classic knit fabric base. Cable stitches are worked as a featured panel, creating texture and visual interest. The pattern includes ribbing details, which add elasticity and definition to the cardigan's edges and shaping.

Tension and Gauge

Correct tension is essential for achieving the intended fit and appearance. The pattern specifies a gauge of 25 stitches and 34 rows to 10cm (4 inches) over stocking stitch using 3.25mm (US 3) needles. The cable panel should measure 7.5cm (3 inches) wide. Knitters are advised to knit a tension swatch and adjust needle size as necessary to achieve these measurements before beginning the cardigan.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate in difficulty. Knitters should be comfortable with cable techniques, shaping, and seaming before beginning this project. The pattern assumes familiarity with standard abbreviations and knitting terminology.

Pattern Format

The Lucy Cardigan pattern is provided as a downloadable PDF document. Instructions are given for the smallest size, with changes for larger sizes clearly marked in square brackets. The pattern includes detailed abbreviations, materials lists, and sizing information to guide knitters through the construction process.