Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Cotton

For the longest time I was on the hunt for a basic pattern to create an easy open front cardigan that I could throw over just about any outfit. No fuss, no frills, just a solid piece to add to my handmade wardrobe. At our 10 year anniversary party, I was delighted to meet the lovely Devon Iott and she was whipping up this gorgeous cardigan so fast.... she graciously shared her info with me and I bought the pattern off Ravelry that same day.

Pattern: Parsley Sage by Melissa Schaschwary 
Yarn: Wool and the Gang's Shiny Happy Cotton in Eagle Grey
Size Made: 40
Needles: US 8, 9, and 10.5
Modifications: I created a 3 inch ribbed hem along the bottom, the pattern calls for just a stockinette finish but I wanted a clean bottom edge to match the front ribbed edging.

Parsley Sage is right up my alley because not only is it long and flowy (and has a hood!), it also calls for Aran weight yarn. Instant gratification coming right up!

I chose Wool and the Gang's Shiny Happy Cotton because I knew it would create a durable yet "drapey" fabric. The Peruvian Pima Cotton is so smooth and soft, I was surprised at how different it felt from other nubbier cottons I've worked with. Not to mention, have you seen the incredible colors it comes in? 

There is very little shaping to worry about through the pattern, however the 3 rows of dropped stitches are perfectly placed to add just enough hint of a tapered waist. The sleeves ended up a bit wider than I intended, in retrospect I would have added more decreasing to fit them a bit closer, but overall I am so thrilled with this comfy cardigan!

The pattern actually calls for Quince and Co's Kestrel, which we also carry at Fancy Tiger Crafts. I believe that yarn would create a slightly lighter-weight fabric than the shiny happy cotton, and would drape just as beautifully.  The cardigan is knit in one piece from the top down, with the sleeves being worked after the body is finished. Without a lot of piecing to do, the only ends to weave in were when a new ball was joined... hooray!

Whether throwing this on over work clothes to stay warm or dolling it up with heels and leggings to head out on the town, it is truly a unique and versatile addition to any handmade wardrobe!