Calathea Cardigan by Natasha Robarge

Calathea Cardigan

Crochet
April 2020
Lace ?
26 stitches and 5 rows = 4 inches
in Border Leaf and Body Leaf Patterns, blocked
3.5 mm (E)
1180 - 2065 yards (1079 - 1888 m)
41 (45, 49, 54, 57, 61)” finished bust measurement; garment is meant to be worn with approximately 6” of ease
US
English
This pattern is available for free.

New leaves are one of the most promising and inspiring symbols of spring. Calathea Cardigan highlights a beautiful combination of stitches which create a wide, solid-leaf border and a large, lace-leaf body. The leaves are formed by special composite stitches (groups of stitches linked together midway) which suspend the leaves in a circular web of chain spaces. The stitch guide provides explanation for the composite stitches used in the pattern and a chart helps to visualize them. The duster also showcases a striking effect of thread crochet lace in a comfortable weight. Open front and high slits at the sides of the duster create a flowing silhouette accommodating for many body types.

The duster is worked from the bottom up in pieces, Right and Left Front, Back, and Sleeves separately. The fabric is first crocheted in Solid Leaf Pattern for the border, seamlessly transitioning into Lace Leaf Pattern for the body. Narrow filet strips run along the sides, front opening, and center back. Back splits at the top in two halves for neck opening and the center back strip helps to execute the split smoothly. The strips can also be made wider or narrower for additional size adjustments. Shoulders, sides, and sleeves are seamed. Hem edging is worked at the end.