Tracie Cardigan

The cardigan is worked from the top down, holding 1 strand of each quality together. Stitches are first cast on for the back, which is worked back and forth with increases and short rows to shape the sloping shoulders. Stitches are then picked up for the front pieces, which are worked separately. Before the work is joined, stitches are picked up for the sleeve caps, which are shaped with short rows. All stitches are then placed on the same needle, and the work is continued back and forth with increases for the sleeve caps and the neckline on the right front piece. When all stitches for the right front piece have been increased, stitches are cast on for the other side of the right front piece. The other side of the neckline is shaped here before this section is joined with the rest of the work. The work is continued with raglan increases, first on the sleeves only and then on the front and back. When all increases are complete, the work is divided for the sleeves, front and back, and the sections are worked separately. The front and back are worked back and forth before the cardigan is finished with ribbing. The sleeves are worked in the round with decreases and finished with ribbing. Finally, the neck is worked in ribbing and the button bands in double knitting.