The Art and Beauty of Knitted Cardigans

Knitted cardigans are an essential piece in every wardrobe, especially during the chilly season. The word ‘cardigan’ originated from the 7th Earl of Cardigan, James Thomas Brudenell, who popularized this type of clothing after wearing it in the battlefield of the Crimean War. But today, we will dive into the beauty and versatility of this wonderful piece of clothing – with a keen focus on the various available knitting patterns and materials.

Knitted cardigans come in different styles, patterns, and materials, which makes them versatile to wear. They range from lightweight knits perfect for layering up in spring, to chunky wool cardigans that provide enough warmth during harsh winter months. They are not just part of a cozy, indoor ensemble. With the right patterns and knit, cardigans can also be a stylish addition to your professional or outdoor attire.

A wide variety of knitting stitches and patterns are used in crafting beautiful cardigans. From the basic garter and stockinette stitches to more complex patterns like lace, cables, or fair isle, the choice of knitting pattern largely determines the texture and feel of the cardigan.

Materials Used for Knitted Cardigans

The material used in knitting a cardigan significantly affects its durability, comfort, and overall appearance. Wool is a popular material for knitted cardigans due to its warmth and durability. It’s commonly used for heavier, chunkier cardigans perfect for the colder months. Cotton, on the other hand, is used for lighter weight cardigans suitable for spring or summer.

Perhaps one of the most luxurious types of wool is cashmere. Known for its extreme softness and lightweight warmth, cashmere cardigans are a high-quality option. Although cashmere cardigans generally come with a higher price tag, the comfort and elegance they offer make them worth every dime.

A blend of materials is also common in producing knitted cardigans. A combination of wool and synthetic fibers, for instance, can create a middle-ground between coziness, durability, and affordability. In some cases, silk or cotton is mixed with cashmere for a luxe, super-soft feel that’s a bit more reasonably priced.

Knitted cardigans are truly versatile pieces of clothing that fit different styles, seasons, and preferences. With the many knitting patterns and materials available, each one can be unique in design and character.

Where to Purchase Knitted Cardigans?

There are numerous places to purchase knitted cardigans, from local clothing stores to online marketplaces. However, the quality of the cardigan should always be a top consideration, especially when looking for specific materials like cashmere.

Where to buy cashmere jackets in Australia, you may ask? There are several reputable online retailers where you can buy high-quality cashmere jackets and cardigans. These include The Iconic, David Jones, and Uniqlo. Be sure to explore these places to find the perfect piece for you or your loved ones.

In conclusion, knitted cardigans, regardless of style, pattern, or material, offer a perfect fusion of comfort and fashion. They are timeless pieces that can cater to various clothing needs and preferences. Whether you’re going for a casual, formal, or chic look, knitted cardigans got you covered.

Do you knit and crochet during the summer months? It is one great divide we come across in crafting. Some people pack away their yarn projects as the barometer rises while others plan on taking their knitting to the beach.There is no reason whyknitting and crochet can’t be all year round activities but you may need to plan differently for the summer months. We have few tips on enjoyable yarn crafting for the summer months.Fibre choiceIf you are worried about getting sticky hands during the summer, choosing the fibres in your yarn carefully can make a big difference. Avoid hairier yarns like mohair or brushed yarns because there will eb more rubbing from the fibres as they pass through your hands making them hotter and potentially felting.

Instead choose your yarn as you do your summer clothes – other natural fibres such as cotton, linen and even bamboo are as good choices for knitting as wearing. These option are often very smooth so will slide through warmer hands more easily.

One thing to remember about cotton and similar yarns is they can stretch or drop because the smoother fibres don’t stick together as much as wool. So take time to make a swatch and wash it before you start.Yarn weightFiner yarns such as 4-ply and laceweight can be a good summer choice because there is less yarn actually going through your hands and your growing project is likely to be lighter and airier. A chunky wrap pooling in your lap in mid-summer is not that pleasant. However, be realistic – I’m not sure hand painted cashmere/silk laceweight and the beach really mix.

Needles and hooksWhat your knitting needlesand hooks are made of can make a difference in how warm your hands feel. If acrylic needles usually feel warm in your hands, they may not be your best choice for summer. Metal can warm up in the sun whereas wood and carbon fibre are less affected by external temperature. Pick needles that generally feel cool or comfortable in your hands.The other factor is how smoothly your stitches move on your needles. Some yarns will stick or slide more on different materials. You will find it more comfortable to choose needles where your stitches slide easily, reducing the chance of generating extra friction and heat.Smaller projectsAs mentioned above with the chunky wrap, a summer’s afternoon is not the best time to work on a man’s chunky jumper that will cover your lap with an insulating layer you really don’t need. Go for smaller and lightweight projects – socks can be a good choice. And the brighter summer light could be perfect for the lacy scarf you’ve been planning.Crocheters might think of making squares or other motifs that can be joined into a blanket in cooler times.Find a good crafting spotSome shade is your friend when it comes to summer knitting as is a light breeze, Find a good knitting spot and stick with it.And most important – enjoy your summer knitting and crochet.