When I was a kid they said that moss grows on the north side of trees—just look at the moss, and you can figure out what direction you’re going, if you happen to get lost in the woods. After moving to the Pacific Northwest I’ve found moss growing on all sides of the trees, and no, it’s not necessarily thicker on the north side. Hope I don’t get too lost. If I do, I’ll be wearing this cozy sweater, so at least I’ll stay warm.

The beauty and simplicity of the moss stitch is shown in this simple cardigan. Sweater is worked in one piece from the hem up to the armholes, including the bands. After binding off the shoulders, the right band is continued until it is long enough to go around the back to join with the left band. Bands are joined with a 3-needle bind off at the shoulder. Extra-long sleeves can be knit from the cuff up, flat, or from the shoulder down with short rows.

Finished sizes: 34, 36.75, 40, 42.75 (46, 48.75, 52.25, 55) inches; 86.5, 93.5, 101.5, 108.5 (117, 124, 132.5, 139.5) cm

To fit bust sizes: 31, 33.75, 37, 39.75 (43, 45.75, 49.25, 52) inches; 78.5, 85.5, 94, 101 (109, 116, 125, 132) cm

Yarn: Bulky weight; 890, 950, 1030, 1100 (1200, 1300, 1400, 1500) yards

Skills: long tail or crochet cast on, k2tog, ssk, YO, moss stitch, p2tog, ssp, 3-needle bind off

Clasps: Three 2-inch (5 cm) clasps; clasps for model supplied by JHB International.

Other supplies: 2 stitch markers are required, more are optional; 2 stitch holders.

Stitch pattern: Charted and written.