Quite a new pattern today! The Marlo Sweater by True Bias has been released a little while but there are still new versions cropping up everywhere for inspiration.
Helen's Closet Blackwood is usually my go-to cardigan pattern however it was nice to try out a new one, especially with these great dropped sleeves and relaxed fit style.
I had been hoarding some super soft textured 'dinky knit' from Textile Express and this seemed an ideal choice for a cosy cardy. My main concern was that it didn't completely destroy my overlocker as has previously happened - see here! I am please to report it went through absolutely fine.
The size I went for was 16-18. Although on the higher end of the original pattern I needed to use the 0-18 version as the cup size increases to a D in the 14-30 version and it would not have fit as well.
The instructions are well illustrated and it gives a couple of options, one beginner, one advanced, for attaching the neckband which is a nice touch. Admittedly I largely ignored the instructions and just ploughed on ahead with construction, attaching the neckband and main body together with the overlocker in one piece (3 layers).
The most difficult thing on this pattern was adding buttonholes to the knit jersey fabric. My machine is usually pretty whizzy at button holes, and does have a jersey setting, but wow, that took some effort. There was definitely a lot of fabric wrestling happening to make the feed dogs pull it under properly and keep moving.
I have since learnt that 'stitch and tear' can be used underneath to help make buttonholes - placed between the fabric and machine, and then ripped out like paper afterwards. I will definitely be trying that next time!
The pattern also calls for some pretty sizeable buttons which are not too hard to come by however I amde a custom order and Turtlebird UK made me the perfect set! These are custom 30mm, lightweight and really pretty - would highly recommend. I went for the darker version to match my fabric.
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Beautiful! I love the color, and the buttons are the perfect finishing touch.
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