Birches

This oversized, drop shoulder cardigan with a dramatic cabled lapel doubles as a jacket in transitional seasons, offering body and warmth without weight. Knit from hem to shoulder in flat pieces, this project speeds along in simple stitch patterns and lofty wool yarn. Work with optional button closure or wear it loose and belted; lapel is self finished with a rolled edge. Length is easily adjusted; four sizes (XS/S; M/L; 1/2X; 3/4X) included.
       
Shown here: size M/L cardigan in Stone Soup DK, color Marble
   
Suggested Yarns: Stone Soup DK, Better Breakfast DK, Kent DK

Substituting yarn and/or needles may result in an overall variation in size, drape, and yardage requirement.

Finished Size:
40(46, 52.5, 59) inches / 101.5(116.5, 133, 149.5) cm around underarm (buttoned) to fit with 6 to 12 inches / 15 to 30.5 cm of ease; Total length is 27.5(28.5, 29, 29.5) inches / 70(72.5, 73.5, 75) cm from back of neck to hem

Yarn Requirements: 
1840(2120, 2375, 2645) yards, 1680(1940, 2170, 2420) meters

Notions: 
One flat .75 (2cm) button for inside closure, 3 toggles (1.5 inch/4 cm) or buttons, approximately .75 (2 cm); stitch markers; tapestry needle

Gauge:
18 sts and 26 rows = 4 inches in Stockinette (unblocked) on larger needles

Needles:
size 8US (5.00 mm) for body or size to obtain correct gauge
size 7US (4.50 mm) or one size smaller than body needle for sleeve cuff and neckband