The Effortless-made-difficult Cardigan | A finish {Knitting}

Friday 31 January 2014

The effortlessly blue cardigan started in August 2012.. That is a looooonnnnggg time ago. And why did it take so long? I knew I wanted to change the pattern but I had no idea how and what it would look like - and there lies the slowing down of the process - although the sheer amount of stockinette probably explains it as well.  


Surprisingly though I love the cardigan. I had doubts that I might not, but it is looks like what I had in mind, an oversized cardigan with loads of ribbing and a massive collar! And the colour, I love it, it is not your typical blue (it is actually quite hard to capture) and is quite striking, making the fact that it is knitted in one colour actually fine. 



Yarn: Berroco Ultra Alpaca in Blue Glasynys 
(used up nearly the whole 9 skeins, including the gauge)
Needles: 5 mm circular (according to the gauge)
Size: L
Modifications: shorten the panels, made the body longer and 
knitted oversized ribbing edges



So how hard is it? : Not that difficult, it is a well-written pattern and there is a LOT of stockinette (just warning you guys). I had to learn how to pick up stitches (see here for my tutorial) which has proved very helpful ever since. Even the blocking was ok. 

I did not change the construction at all, it is really a case of shortening and lengthening some of the dimensions to create an oversized version (in addition to the fact that I knitted one size bigger than my usual size). The construction is amazing however, the raglan sleeves the attachment of the collar and the panel - it makes a beautiful finish. 



This probably the picture that shows off the colour best. 

I am of course very happy to have a new cardigan in my wardrobe, but I am even happier to have finished knitting this. And just move on... And yes I already have a project in mind (in 6.5 mm circular needles, bigger, better, faster, right?)

16 comments:

  1. Very comfy looking cardigan. Although it is kinda ironic that it's still called "effortless" after two years :)

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  2. Love it. I have a store bought one that is oversized and similar in look. I wear it often. Love the color.

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  3. What a beautiful finish! I love that colour too!
    I hate picking up stitches as it can really affect the look of the item, I'm off to have peek at your tutorial!

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  4. its beautiful! It took me 12 months to knit a cardigan for my self with lots of other makes happening. The alpaca must be so warm and soft to wear. Very tempted to copy!

    poppyinstitches@yahoo.co.uk

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  5. What a beautiful cardigan, but its name does seem a bit ironic.

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  6. I LOVE this! The color is striking, and the drape, both open and closed, is beautiful! You look gorgeous wearing it.

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  7. This is gorgeous! I love it on you!

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  8. It looks great on you. It's so comfy and a warm hug. I like your kicks.

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  9. Good on you for finishing such a big project. I'm having trouble with a second sock! It looks to be a lovely teal colour

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  10. You look fab - and your sweater is to-die-for!!! Love it.

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  11. This looks so comfy to wear! Nice colour - I think you will get much wear out of it!

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  12. That is a lovely cardigan. Congrats on finishing it :)

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  13. This is just beautiful Nat - I love the colour and the design!

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  14. Gorgeous - I love the colour. Being a beginner knitter I am in awe!

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