Staff Project: Knitted Cardigan in Rowan Pure Alpaca

Black Sheep Tracey has an eye for classic knitwear pieces. She likes to make a considered choice before embarking on a new garment to cast on. There's quite often a pattern book being mulled over during lunch or a swatch being knitted trying out a favoured yarn. Tracey really knows her colour palette too. The Ruby shade of Rowan Pure Alpaca is a warm almost terracotta colour that really compliments Tracey's skin tone and hair colour.

An old favourite cardigan for Tracey which has inspired many customers in store is the 'Minimal' in Rowan Cotton Glace. This is a very wearable, fitted, cotton cardigan with eyelet detail, perfect for summer. Perhaps with her latest finished project Tracey has found the perfect autumn winter alternative.

Name: Tracey
Pattern: Smock
Yarn: Rowan Pure Alpaca
Shade: 120 Ruby
Size: 2nd size 32"-24"

What attracted you to this design?
The cropped, fitted, tailored cardigan with neat raglan joins. Also a neat buttoned neckline. 

How did you find the pattern? 
It was really easy to follow. The challenge for me was sewing the raglan seams neatly and also sewing the button band in place. It is well worth taking extra time over sewing pieces together. The finish is beautiful, I used mattress stitch. 

What do you think of the yarn?
I've never used it before. I found it beautiful to knit with, very soft and excellent quality. The colour range is lovely, really vibrant colours. It is a beautiful yarn.

Would you recommend the pattern to someone else? Any advice?
Definitely, yes! This has probably been my favourite knit to date. I love the neat button band and classy neat fit of the cardigan. The yarn is also lovely and soft next to the skin. It keeps you warm too.

Describe the fit of your finished garment....
It fits perfectly! The cardigan was beautiful after blocking. It is worth taking time over this stage too.

How do you plan to wear your new garment? How will you style it?
I imagine wearing it with high waisted, wide leg trousers or jeans. It would also look fab with a midi pleated skirt and boots as in the photo on the pattern. A cropped cardigan suits being paired with high waist garments. 

What do you plan to make next?
I have already cast on 'Prized' from Rowan Magazine 78 in Rowan Kid Classic. It's another Martin Storey pattern.