I suppose that a design for a lace cardigan which can be knitted or crocheted in any weight yarn, on small to large size needles or hooks, is not just for “skinny” people, is a great alternative to a shawl, has zillions of variations, and employs a deceptively simple construction method would indeed present unusual marketing issues. So, I’ll spare everyone further whining and just say that I need encouragement of some sort, especially since: a) it is past the “knitting Christmas presents” season (but I suppose the pattern and yarn would make a nice gift); and b) the photos I have are only of the original three prototypes which require minor modifications to the edging, plus one test knit model that is not shown on a person (I don’t have any photos developed of the latest Model F version of the cardigan that I myself knitted, being modeled by a person, and with full length sleeves). In brief, my hope is that after three years of “sitting on” this design, somehow, someway it can get out into the knitting world and make lots of folks look very elegant…
Below are pics of the very first one I did… the neckline is a bit too wide, unless… ruffles are added, and/or it is worn as evening wear in silk chenille, or as new mom bed jacket. For the second version, I narrowed the neckline (see below).
Erikas 601 – Model F – Wide V Neck – Front
Erikas 601 – Model F – Wide V Neck – Back
Below are pics of the second one (Narrow V-Neck Version):
Erikas 601 – Model F – Narrow V Neck Version – Front
Erikas 601 – Model F – Narrow V Neck – Back
The pics below are the third version, based on Model C of the Erikas 601 pattern. The only difference from the Model F is that the center leaf is larger. It takes about 1,250 yards, whereas the Model F only requires 750 yards for 3/4 length sleeves.
Erikas 601 – Model C – Front
Erikas 601 – Model C – Back
Erikas 601 – Model F – Test Knitted By DaisyKitten
Also, for doily sweaters knitted or designed by my lace knitting colleagues, check out the links to Fleegle and Nazee under “BLOGROLL” at above left.
Note Regarding GAUGE: To determine the precise gauge when not knitting on Size 8 or 7 needles, you will have to knit either a doily beret or pillow, and then measure the diameter. The instructions for working the brim of the beret, or the back side of the pillow will be included. Also, this pattern requires grafting… it really is not hard to do, and instructions are included. [Update: Perhaps only knitting 4 repeats would give correct gauge, the result could perhaps be worn as an “elf” hat…]
The pattern will cost USD 10.00, in part because it contains instructions for 3 versions of the cardigan with modifications for three different bust sizes, and free updates will be available for variations of the border and sleeves.
If you want to purchase this pattern, pathetic photos and all, email me at “doilyhead@yahoo.com”. I will then send you a PayPal invoice, and upon payment will email you the pdf.
6 comments
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December 9, 2009 at 11:07 pm
vintagekathleen
The construction is ingenious!
December 9, 2009 at 11:17 pm
doilyhead
Thanks…
It’s one of those “someone must have done this somewhere before”, but can’t seem to find anything. Was thinking of asking the HistoricKnits group on Yahoo, but am too chicken… and distracted.
December 11, 2009 at 1:09 am
Maria H
I, too, think the construction is ingenious! Glenda, you offer so much for so little…….what an asset you are to the lace knitting world!
December 11, 2009 at 4:24 pm
doilyhead
December 17, 2009 at 10:25 am
Cardigan
It would be great if you have it knitted closely. It is good at times but not sure it will be a perfect alternate source instead of cardigan. Personally I liked the cardigans you presented here.
December 17, 2009 at 3:36 pm
doilyhead
Hi,
If by “closely” you mean a non-lace pattern, note that a test knitter will be working on a cable stitch/non-lace version of this pattern, and will post pics when I can.
As for “instead of cardigan”, am not sure what you are trying to say… give it another go!
Glenda