DESCRIPTION
Kikka (菊花), meaning chrysanthemum in Japanese, is a delicate V-neck cardigan featuring set-in sleeves. Its intricate lace pattern, reminiscent of chrysanthemum petals, is the inspiration behind its name.

CONSTRUCTION
This cardigan is knit from the top down. The back is worked flat, and stitches are then picked up for shoulder shaping before transitioning into the front panels. Side seams join the front and back panels together. Sleeves are knit in the round from picked-up stitches, with short-row shaping to form the sleeve cap. An i-cord edge finishes the collar, front, and hem while a simple lace edge completes the sleeves.

TECHNIQUES
Purled cast on
Knitted cast on
I-cord bind off
I-cord buttonhole
Japanese short rows
German short rows

NEEDLES & NOTIONS
Smaller needles: 3.5mm or appropriate size to meet stockinette gauge
Larger needles: 4mm or appropriate size to meet lace pattern gauge
Tapestry needle
At least 3 distinct stitch markers
8mm button (optional)

GAUGE
24 sts x 8 rows = 10cm x 2.5cm in stockinette on smaller needles
18 sts x 29 rows = 10cm x 10cm in lace pattern on larger needles