Perfect for those times when you need a little something to take off the chill, Simplicity is a lightweight, flyaway cardigan that can be worn either tied at the waist or with the fronts gently draped to the sides. Knit seamlessly back-and-forth from the top (neck) down to the hem, with raglan 3/4 sleeves, it is intended to be worn with 0-2” of positive ease at the bust (ie. 0-2” larger than the actual bustline). The lower back edge of the bodice is shaped with short rows.

Although the pattern calls for laceweight yarn, the stated gauge is more typical of a sportweight or heavy fingeringweight. Because of this, the knitting really won’t take any longer than knitting a similar sweater in a heavier yarn. In addition, the sweater can be easily with a fingeringweight yarn. The cardigan will be less drapey than with laceweight, but it will still work--you’ll just have a bit stiffer of a fabric.

SMALL TYPO for those downloading Simplicity prior to November 4, 2010. The final part of the sleeve instructions should read: Work these 16(14, 10, 8, 6, 6) rounds 3(5, 7, 10, 12, 16) more times.

Because Simplicity does not close fully over the bust at the front, refer to the schematic (specifically to the measurements across the back) when determining which size to make. Since the cardigan is meant to fit rather loosely at the front (with anywhere from 0-2” of positive ease), matching your bust measurement perfectly is not essential for a wonderful fit with Simplicity. Note that the model in the photo measures to a 34” bust and is wearing size 35.

Sizes to fit 31(35, 38, 42, 46, 49)” bust require 1(1, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2) skeins Madelinetosh Prairie (840 yards/skein), or approximately 750(840, 1020, 1150, 1360, 1570) yards of laceweight yarn.