This is an absolutely beautiful garment.

Very enjoyable to knit - lots of lovely dressmaking details in the finishing. I particularly like the slip stitch edging along the fronts - very neat.

I worked the directions for size 40, with my different gauge (5.5spi instead of 5spi) this gave me a finished result equivalent to size 38. A few minor adjustments were needed here and there for my different row gauge, nothing difficult.

It took me a couple of days to put it together - there are 9 pattern pieces in all, and it was worth taking the time to get a professional finish. The exposed seams took some care - it is not a good idea taking two rows at a time, with the mattress stitch, one row each side works much better.

The cuffs with buttons are a lovely detail, and the back vent is a nice design feature too. Getting the collar just right is another job that needs some attention - and after some thought I did work the oversewing (self coloured, not contrast) along the two front edges, from the top of the garter bands up to the beginning of the collar. This adds some stability to the edge, which is needed as the lapels are trying to roll. I need to block it properly, then it will behave.

I am very pleased indeed with this cardigan.