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Announcing Our Fall 2013 Crochet-Along Project: the Colorfully Modern Cardigan

Home/Crochet-AlongAnnouncing Our Fall 2013 Crochet-Along Project: the Colorfully Modern Cardigan

Announcing Our Fall 2013 Crochet-Along Project: the Colorfully Modern Cardigan

- Zontee
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Several times a year we host a crochet- or knit-along, a virtual event in which yarncrafters come together here online to work on one pattern together, share their experiences, and to learn together. There’s no need to sign up! Simply follow along with the blog posts at your own pace as you crochet your project, and feel free to share your comments and/or photos as you progress. Want to learn more? Click here for our guide.

The Votes Are In!

Over 20,000 (wow!) of you voted for our next online project, and the winning pattern for our crochet-along is the Colorfully Modern Cardigan!

CALbadge

Feel free to pick up this badge to use on your blog, Ravelry, etc to show that you’re participating! (Right-click on PCs or Ctrl+click on Macs to save it to your desktop and upload it to your site)

Crochet-Along Next Steps

1. This week, download the pattern (click here for the pattern) and read it through so you have a sense of how the project is going to take shape. We’ll be walking you through a different element each week, so don’t worry if you see anything you’re not familiar with!

2. Gather your materials.  Since this pattern features our brand new yarn, Unique, we are offering kits in each size for 25% off as a special treat!

Click here to view & order the kits at 25% off.

Want to substitute yarns? Learn more about substitution with this FAQ.

Several of you mentioned wanting to make the project in a solid color–we recommend Vanna’s Choice for this effect, and we believe that it will take approximately 11 (12 to 14, 12 to 14, 14 to 16 balls) of yarn for the various sizes. Since this design was created in stripes, it’s a little trickier to estimate how much yarn will be used in the solids, which is why there’s a little bit of a range.

3. Introduce yourself below! Tell us who you are, where you’re from, who you’re making this cardigan for, and what you hope to learn!

Plus, if you’re on Ravelry, click here to view and join our companion Ravelry group for the crochet-along.

Join us next week to talk about gauge and starting the project. 

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233 Comments

  • So Cute! I think like substitute with Amazing.

    • Are you thinking to use two strands, or modify the stitch counts in the pattern to accommodate the gauge difference?

      • I’ll probably swatch with a single strand and adjust the numbers depending on the swatch.

        • I’m working on my swatch with one strand, using 10mm hook. Have you finished yours?

  • I think this will be fun. I’ll probably substitute yarn.

  • I’m going to do this in a solid color.

  • Love this but think I will use homespun instead

    • Got an email the other day and they are now including larger sizes!!!!

  • Adorable but it would be nice if there were larger sizes (the reason I did NOT vote for this one).

  • Hi, I’m Janie from Austin, Texas. I’ve been crocheting for a little over
    35 years. I’ll be making this gorgeous cardigan for myself actually. I
    will probably sub the yarn…not 100% sure just yet. Can’t wait to get
    started on it though 🙂

  • Can’t wait to get started. I love the colors just the way they are.

  • Hi I have been crocheting for over 25 years. I usually make baby and childrens items but I am going to make this cardigan for my mother for Christmas in a solid.. 🙂

  • I’m looking forward to making this for ME! I usually make things for other people but this I’ll make for me.

  • too bad the sizes are so small. Would love to make this in a plus size.

  • is there a 3x version???

  • I’m so excited for this CAL! I voted for this pattern 🙂 I’ll definitely be making this for myself.

  • Not sure what yarn I will use, but will make it with long sleeves.

    • I’d love it in long sleeves also.

      • Hi Pam, crochet-along host Lauren will talk about lengthening the sleeves in one of her later posts, so stay tuned!

  • I want to be excited because I thought this was the prettier sweater, but the sizes are for Twiggy and her skinnier friends. If someone were to work on real woman sizes I would be doing this CAL. As it is I guess I will have to find something else to make.

    • I think all sizes from XS up could be beautiful. Not every pattern lends itself well to an extended range of sizes, but this design could look good on everyone if more sizes were available. Yarn companies usually do KAL/CAL’s to promote a new yarn, bring attention to their patterns or just to sell more yarn. More people (including bigger people) buy more yarn, so why not make it easy for them to make their size? When this design was submitted, someone at LB should have told the designer, “It’s beautiful! We like it so much, we’d like to share it with more crocheters. Please add a smaller size and a 2X/3X. Thank you so much; we love it.” Since this has happened before with LB KAL/CAL’s, I have to wonder if it’s the personal preference of the person who picks the designs to choose from.

    • Hi Marian, we’ve added larger sizes, so be sure to check out the pattern and the
      kits! See the new blog post for more info:
      http://blog.lionbrand.com/2013/08/21/colorfully-modern-cardigan-pattern-now-available-in-2x-3x-4x/

  • I have been crocheting for about 40 years. I mostly make blankets, shawls,and scarves.(for everybody else). Early in my learning I tried to make a baby sweater and failed big time. So this will be my first attempt at something other then a square/rectangle. Also this will be for ME!!! Can’t wait to try it out.

  • Hello, I am Tatianna. I taught myself to crochet about two years ago. I am from Glendale, Arizona and I will be making this cardigan for myself just to see if I can actually finish a big project like this.

  • I’m Marge from Port Charlotte FL. Making this for myself. Yes it does get cold here. I work at JoAnn Fabrics so I’ll get yarn when on sale. WooHoo!

  • Hi I’m Barbara from Vegas, I may do 2 at the same time. A tweed to hide dog hair for home and dog park, and a more colorful on for going out and about to work and stores etc. .This will be my first clothing ( not counting scarves and wraps) Looking forward to it. I have been crocheting for 40 years. learned at a grass hopper age.

  • How fast does this go? I crochet pretty fast & can finish a sweater in a week.

    • Hi Morgen, we will probably work on the project over about 5 weeks. However, you can always work at your own speed! Feel free to share photos of your progress here to help and inspire other participants!

  • this one isn’t for me. no plus sizes and just doesn’t appeal to me

  • I hope Lion Brand is paying attention to the comments!

  • im traci – – i’ve been crocheting since 14 – -when i was taught in Children’s Hospital Columbus. These mothers of other patients taught me — i started out making a dish cloth – -and when i fisnished – – it covered my bed. Have had the bug ever since – 😉 – – -want to make 1st one for my self – – – love sweaters

    • JeAndra in Columbus Ohio. I’m going to try this one too. Going in to look at yarn today. Unsure if I will use the one listed or something different.

  • I really want to try the CAL but am worried it is above my skill level. Is there enough information in the weekly postings and comments to help someone along who has limited knowledge? I have crochets a few baby afghans but nothing except square/rectangular patterns.

    • Hi Rebecca, based on my experience, I would say that it depends on you. If you are comfortable pushing your skill level, we have had many first-time garment makers learn new skills with our crochet- and knit-alongs. But if you’re not 100% sure, read through the different stitches and skills in the pattern, look them up online, and try them on a swatch beforehand, so you have a chance to practice before making the actual garment. Keep in mind that all the blog posts stay up permanently, so you can always work a little bit behind the blog posts to give yourself extra time. Hope that helps!

      • Thanks, this was my concern too. I’ve done a ruffle shrug, but nothing with multi-pieces. It looks exciting, though. I am currently doing a blanket with a FPDC/BPDC pattern so I have lots of experience with this stitch!

  • I am from Hammond, IN (the Chicago area). I have been crocheting for 40 years. This is the first time I’ve participated in a group. I will be substituting the yarn, but haven’t decided which one yet. I make mostly baby blankets, but I have done a cardigan before.

  • I love this and just printed out the pattern. I am in western N.C. and it will be cooler weather in no time. I was wondering why the yarn is a 5 and 4 weight mix I have huge amounts of 4 worsted weight and very little 5, could I use all 4?

    • Hi Carol, since Vanna’s Choice is on the thicker end of category 4 yarns and Unique is on the thinner side of category 5 yarns, we’ve used them together. If you can find a yarn that is within that range, and you like the texture of the fabric when you swatch it to the recommended gauge, you could certainly use it.

      • Thank you so much for your quick reply. That really helps me feel more able to make a good choice and I will be very careful of the gauge. love Carol

  • Such a pretty sweater! I will also be switching out yarn and will be trying to adjust the size as well. Also, I would like to make it with longer sleeves…I’m from Wisconsin and short sleeved sweaters don’t keep your arms warm 🙂 This is my first crochet-along. I have been crocheting for 40 years and I make a lot of crocheted animals and hats right now. But, I have crocheted a bit of everything from cotton thread items to big afghans.

  • I might try this with the group. Might be cute. Probably won’t substitute.

  • I am returning to crochet after a long break so this will be a challenge for me. This is also my first Crochet-Along. I am taking no chances, I ordered the kit! I’m making this for myself – I think it will look great with jeans.

  • Curious what the break down was on the votes. Seems to me from these comments and the comments on the voting page that there was another pattern that was more popular than this….just saying….

    • Hi JAB, this pattern had 40% of the vote, which was almost 8 percentage points more than the next pattern (the Top Down Raglan Jacket), so it won by a rather significant margin.

      Keep in mind that, if this pattern isn’t for you, we do crochet-alongs every year (and there are other crochet-alongs on the yarn community Ravelry.com), so you may find other projects that appeal to you!

  • I’ve ordered the kit and will make it for my mom for a weight loss celebration/Christmas gift. Can’t wait to begin.

  • I wish there was a 2x size too. I’m wanting to make this for myself, and that’s the size I need. Thanks!

  • Love the pattern. Will probably change the colours to just 2 colours so I can wear with more of my clothes at work.

  • Hi my name is Cathy and I live in Mid-Coast Maine I have been knitting since I was three years old and taught myself to crochet at the age of 16 only have done granny squares or ripple blankets have always wanted to learn how to do more… that is what I want to get out of this I find reading crochet patterns very confusing so I may have lots of questions… haven’t decided yet if I am going to make this for myself or for my sister….

  • Yay! the one I wanted won! However, I too, like many of you, need a larger size. I knit more than crochet, so I’m just guessing, but it looks like the sizes are determined by multiples of 2-4 stitches. Is it reasonable to assume that I can add 8 stitches to the back piece, and 4 to the sleeves and front pieces to increase the size to 3X? (If not, I’ll just fake it…) I’m April from Indiana and I always miss the Knit or crochet alongs that I see in various places, so I’m glad I caught this one!

    • Hi April, I think it sounds like a reasonable idea. Just keep an eye on the armhole area (your length would have to be 10.5 inches before the should shaping, to make sure the sleeves fit into it correctly). Please share your progress, as I’m sure that others would be interested in learning from your experiences!

      • Thank you! I will certainly chime in as we move forward. How much extra in the way of yarn would you predict for this kind of adjustment?

        • Hi April, we’ve actually worked with our tech editors to add larger sizes, so check out the pattern for yarn requirements. Hopefully it makes your project a little simpler too. See the new blog post for more info:
          http://blog.lionbrand.com/2013/08/21/colorfully-modern-cardigan-pattern-now-available-in-2x-3x-4x/

          • Thank you! I’m working on my swatch as we speak, using a lighter weight yarn but the same size hook. Directions on going larger will make things so much simpler once I get my gauge right! I’ll read the blog!

  • I didn’t choose this pattern because I’m a new self taught crocheter. I hope they add a ‘dumbed down’ version of this pattern. It’s a big yarn investment and don’t want to waste it or become frustrated due to my inability. Please take this into consideration for those of us that aren’t as able as some of crocheting sisters!!

    • Hi Rebecca, based on my experience, I would say that you will need to be able to read patterns, but as long as you’re comfortable doing that, you can read through the different stitches and skills in the pattern, look them up online, and try them on a swatch beforehand, so you have a chance to practice before making the actual garment.

      Keep in mind that all the blog posts stay up permanently, so you can always work a little bit behind the blog posts to give yourself extra time to practice the skills before making that investment. Hope that helps!

  • This looks cute hope I can keep up. I’ve never done one of these before.

    • Hi Kathy, since all of the blog posts stay up once they’re released, you can feel free to work at your own pace and refer to them when you’re ready for each step. Hope that helps!

  • I love this. So glad this one was picked. I will probably also use homespun (one of my favorites!) in a solid color. I am Megan and I live an hour outside of Philadelphia, near Lancaster. This is my first time making a piece of clothing and am so excited to see how it turns out! Since it is my first, I will probably keep it for myself

  • I’m fairly new to crocheting (about 3 yrs) and this will be my first crochet along and first intermediate project. If I do this I’ll use the yarn shown. It’s a very pretty cardigan and it will be for me.

  • Love this pattern but the number of colors is a little daunting, so I think I will try this with a solid color. Can’t wait to see all the finished projects from this one

  • I am looking forward to working on this project. I am making it for my daughter. I love the color choices.

  • I am in the SF Bay Area of California. I have been crocheting for a very long time, but don’t usually have much time for it and usually make gifts for others. This is my first CAL and I plan to make it for me. I will likely try to make it smaller. (I wish crochet patterns included true Petite sizes.) I love the look of this pattern. I cannot find Unique in my area, so I ordered the kit and will wait for it to arrive.

  • Do we still use size N crochet hook if we substitute Vanna’s Choice yarn? I am in Quincy IL. This will be my first CAL & most ambitious project. I can’t wait to begin!

    • Hi Rebecca, the hook size in the pattern is just a recommended starting place. The hook you use for the pattern should always be the one that gives you the correct gauge. We will go over gauge swatching in next week’s blog post, but if you’re itching to get started, read this FAQ from our website about making a gauge swatch: http://www.lionbrand.com/faq/7.html

  • This my first crochet along project. I have never made a crocheted sweater. I am excited to get started!

  • I posted a message but I dont think that it worked. My name is Terrie and I am from California. I think that I will make this for myself. I have never done a crochet along before.

  • Hi! I’m Sybil from suburban St. Louis. I have crocheted for more years than I care to admit, but in my favor I did start when I was a kid. I’m excited about this CAL because I have downloaded lots of patterns for clothing, but haven’t made one yet. I hope being a part of this will keep me motivated. My projects have ranged from afghans to accessories (hats, scarves, mittens, laptop case) to a few Amigurumi dolls. I consider myself to be pretty advanced with crochet, but I still need a pattern (can’t make my own, yet). Good luck to all of you who join me!

  • Hi! I’m Sybil from suburban St. Louis. I have crocheted for more years than I care to admit, but in my favor I did start when I was a kid. I’m excited about this CAL because I have downloaded lots of patterns for clothing, but haven’t made one yet. I hope being a part of this will keep me motivated. My projects have ranged from afghans to accessories (hats, scarves, mittens, laptop case) to a few Amigurumi dolls. I consider myself to be pretty advanced with crochet, but I still need a pattern (can’t make my own, yet). Good luck to all of you who join me!

  • Can’t wait to get started. I’ve been crocheting for 25 years. Have never made a sweater. Excited to try.

  • I’d like to make a shorter version of this, say 20 or 21 inches long instead of 30 (for the size large), and leave off the pockets. I’d use the same sleeve length shown with the pattern. Can I get an estimate of how much less yarn to get? I like the colors used in the photo. I’ll make this for myself, and it’ll be my first sweater.

  • The instructions seem kind of complicated but at least I can take my time. Depending on how much the “sale” is I might empty out my tote bag of Micheal’s clearance skeins. 😉

  • I’ve never done a crochet-along project with a group before, so I am looking forward to it!

  • I like the style as well but wish it was another size up for us girls who ate little bigger on top.

  • Solid color for me too!

  • I’ve been crocheting since I was a little girl and this will be my first attempt at an article of clothing- I wouldn’t dare trying to make it for someone else!

  • Sharon McIndoe
    I am very disappointed. The yarn is not available at Michaels or Joann’s. I would love to make this.

    • Hi Sharon, Unique is already available to our retail partners, but since they may
      only change over their shelves at a particular time of year, we can’t
      control what they’ve put out at any given time. We always recommend
      checking with a sales associate to see if they have the product coming
      in and/or if they can special order it for you. If you’d like to use a
      different yarn, we recommend our Tweed Stripes as a similar color-change
      yarn in a similar weight. Hope that helps!

  • Can the patterns of the other two projects voted on be obtained from Lion Brand for individual use?

    • Hi Pam, they’re free on LionBrand.com–you can use the search box there to pull them up or click on the names of the patterns in the original voting post above “click here to vote” to get to them directly. Enjoy!

  • Hi All! I am in the Pacific Northwest so I am going to make this with long sleeves. I am going to use up my scrap yarn for the stripes with 2 rows of black yarn in between each color change for unity. I think that will make it dressier but that’s okay. I may also edge it in black and make black yarn buttons but I will decide this when I get to that point. Good luck with yours, everyone.

  • Hi All! I am in the Pacific Northwest so I am going to make this with long sleeves. I am going to use up my scrap yarn for the stripes with 2 rows of black yarn in between each color change for unity. I think that will make it dressier but that’s okay. I may also edge it in black and make black yarn buttons but I will decide this when I get to that point. Good luck with yours, everyone.

  • I will probably make it in one color as well. Just not sure what yet.

  • Melissa from Los Angeles…..I love the color pallette! I can wear it with so many different outfits. I hope to wear it when I am traveling. I purchased the kit with 25% off.

  • Melissa from Los Angeles…..I love the color pallette! I can wear it with so many different outfits. I hope to wear it when I am traveling. I purchased the kit with 25% off.

  • Love this sweater… Can’t wait to start this..

  • I wish I knew how to Crochet . I am a knitter although I have tons of how to books and hooks in the hopes of teaching myself to Crochet. I love the looks of this Cardigan

    • Hi Kemer, don’t forget to check out our YouTube video playlist on learning to crochet: http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7E9A9C1809C7D601
      or visit learntocrochet.lionbrand.com for written and illustrated instructions. Don’t forget that these blog posts stay up after the event, so you can always come back to them and make the sweater in the future!

  • I think it is a shame that you included patterns to vote for that don’t fit a number of your customers. I would have enjoyed participating and since LB works with their designers, you could have specified that it had to fit up to a 3 X.

    Since your ultimate goal is to sell yarn, you missed the mark here. 3X buys more yarn than Small. Sad.

  • The kit has Unique, which is a 5-bulky yarn, and Vanna’s Choice, which is a 4-medium yarn. If I change to a different yarn, maybe one color for the entire project, should I get a 4 or 5 weight?

    • Hi Sybil, Unique is on the thin side of bulky weight and Vanna’s Choice is on the thick side of medium, which is why we are able to use them together. Look for a yarn that falls into that range (our Homespun, Tweed Stripes, Martha Stewart Crafts Alpaca Blend, and Nature’s Choice Organic Cotton are good examples). Hope that helps!

  • Yea! I found it on ravelry! Now I hope to find a way to make it 3x or 2x! Any help to do that?

  • I love this cardigan, but with all those color changes, I am a little worried about weaving in all those ends. Does anyone know if that’s a problem?

  • I love this cardigan, but with all those color changes, I am a little worried about weaving in all those ends. Does anyone know if that’s a problem?

    • Hi Linda, crochet-along host Lauren will talk about handling the color changes. If you’d like, you can wait until she talks about it in her blog posts. All of the blog posts stay up after the event, so you are welcome to work “behind” the project and decide about making it after she discusses the options.

  • This is beautiful but not for me as there is no cover for my arthritic neck which I have to have.Gwensie.

  • This is beautiful but not for me as there is no cover for my arthritic neck which I have to have.Gwensie.

  • HI! I am from Raymore, Missouri. I look forward to making this sweater. It has been a while since I have crocheted a sweater. I have been crocheting for over 30 years.

  • Getting back into crocheting. An Xmas gift for my daughter

  • I agree with many women here. I can’t do this one because I am a 2X/3X. Us large and lovelies are routinely ignored. So sad, cause there’s more of us than there are the skinny gals!

  • I didn’t vote for this one either. Need a bigger size too. The way I look at it is I just saved myself some money and time. And I can always do the other pattern by myself.

  • This is a charming jacket. The CAL is new to me but I’m sure it will be fun. I’ve ordered the kit.

  • This will be my first crochet-along and my first time making a piece of clothing, I usually make blankets, I am very excited! I live in Durbanville (outside Cape Town), not sure if my yarn shop has the yarn specified, will try out a few until I have the right gauge. Am looking forward to following the posts and to trying a more complicated pattern than my usual square blanket!

  • Hi, I have never made a crochet garment before but am an experienced knitter (learned in the 70s) who recently started to knit again after a 10 year gap with your spring knit along which I really enjoyed. I have never managed to do anything other than squares with crochet so I am very keen on this project. I expect to finish probably a month or two behind everyone else though since it is going to be a big learning curve for me.

  • This looks like a fun pattern, but I don’t understand how it works – the pattern seems to mix a bulky yarn (Unique) with a worsted weight (Vanna’s choice) without changing the stitch numbers or hook size. Won’t it get all bunched up and uneven? Do you just have to crochet more loosely when you are working with the worsted weight?

    • Hi there, since Unique is on the thin side of bulky weight and Vanna’s Choice is on the heavy side of medium weight, they can be worked together in the pattern at the recommended gauge and stay even. Hope that helps!

  • This looks like a fun pattern, but I don’t understand how it works – the pattern seems to mix a bulky yarn (Unique) with a worsted weight (Vanna’s choice) without changing the stitch numbers or hook size. Won’t it get all bunched up and uneven? Do you just have to crochet more loosely when you are working with the worsted weight? Did I miss something?

    • Hi Patrice, since Unique is on the thin side of bulky weight and Vanna’s Choice is
      on the heavy side of medium weight, they can be worked together in the
      pattern at the recommended gauge and stay even. Hope that helps!

  • I am an avid crocheter and designer with 40 years of experience. I will be adjusting the pattern to my size (3X/4X) based on my gauge swatch. I really like the stripes and how the FPDC pulls color down into the rows below. Even though I am increasing the size, this cardigan/coat is worked in pieces and should not impact the self-striping of the yarn very much.

  • I’m Lorraine from Palmetto, Florida. I have been crocheting about 2 years. Self taught. I plan on using different colors making a joseph’s coat of many colors.

  • Hi I’m gonna donate mine to Macmillan cancer nurses in memory of me mum. she taught me how to crochet when she taught me sisters how to knit cos I couldn’t get the knitting right and it was too wet to go out.
    Gary.

  • This is my first CAL but I’ve been crocheting for 45 years. I once made myself a fully lined crochet coat and made lots of clothes for my 3 girls. Of late, though, mostly been crocheting afghans, doll clothes, hats and scarves. Anxious to get my game up again!

  • sorry won’t be joining you, far too many fpdc stitches

  • Hi ,My name is Judy and I , Too am interested in the instructions for size 2x .I love this sweater and will be making it for my granddaughter first (and myself if I get the larger size)

  • Yikes! Why oh why, isn’t this pattern in a 2 or 3X? I would love to try this but will have to pass. Please let us know if someone can figure how to increase the pattern to a larger size. I voted for the “top down” pattern because it was in a larger size. So disappointed.

  • This is my first time joining one of these “a-longs”. I love the look of this cardigan and am going to try to make it for myself. I have been crocheting and knitting for a very long time (like 40 years) but seldom get past the baby blankets and Christmas presents. Retired now, so hope I can make time to try and actually finish something exciting. Will be asking questions. Thanks for a group like this.

  • Hi from the azure coast. This will be my first CAL. I love the colors in the photo, that’s one of the reasons why I voted for it! But I have to order the kit, have it sent to my home in soCa and have my sister send it to me here in France, so I might not get to start with y’all right away.

  • I’m anxious to make this. I hope to use yarns from my stash and will then give it to my crochet group at Church to use in Christmas baskets.

  • Greetings from the azure coast. I love the silhouette and the colors in the pic, it’s the one I voted for. This will be my first crochet-along. I have ordered the kit to be delivered to my house in soCal, from there my sister will have to send it on to me here in France, so I might not get to start with y’all right away. I am 51 years old but skinny, built much like the girl modeling the cardi in the pic, so stitching this up should be pretty straightforward. I have only crocheted clothing twice before so I’m inexperienced in 3-d projects

  • Charity from Chico, CA. I would probably be the only one I know who would wear homemade clothes, haha, so I think I’ll make it for me. But im gonna give it more thought because id love to give it as a gift.
    Definitely subbing with a solid color (are you kidding?)
    And if I learn anything, it will probably be time management since I’ll be trying to find time to finish this around my 9 month old, my 4 year old’s first year in a charter school, running my own craft business from home, gardening/canning AND remodelling the house!!

    Hmmm…. come to think of it, I never finished the Inishturk KAL from three years ago. DRAT!!
    😉

  • This is the one I voted for YEA!!! I’m a crochet instructor who is always tailoring classes to my students preferences or making gifts for other people. This CAL project will be just for me and if it goes well I will introduce the pattern to my class. I voted for this pattern because of the colors used and the pockets. A stylish cardigan with pockets is a great addition to brighten up my wardrobe and a classic pattern that will last for years. I’m always modifying patterns, changing colors or yarn types but this time I think I’ll stick to the pattern and colors exactly as they are pictured. Good luck everyone! Can’t wait to see everyone’s photos.

  • I have been crocheting since I was young and I have made many different things. Mostly I make sweaters, hats and booties for babies. This time I am making this cardigan for myself, something that I haven’t done in 30 years!. I love color so this project will be enjoyable. This is the first time that I have ever joined a discussion group and I am really looking forward to being in contact with other crocheters since know one I know crochets or knits.

  • It is very cute, but I voted on one that came in a larger size. I won’t be making this since it does not come in a size for me. 🙁

  • This is very cute but I can’t afford to spend that much on yarn for one sweater project. Hope some future projects will be smaller or use less yarn.

  • I absolutely love the colors! I have never made a garment before, only afghans, baby blankets, scarves, but this one looked so pretty that I thought I’d give it a try. I have been crocheting for about 40 years, so I’m hoping that whatever I’ve learned will help with this major project. Can’t wait to receive the kit I ordered!

  • I have read a lot of comments on the need for a bigger size pattern. Will anyone be posting a modified larger pattern?

  • Am I missing something? Do the instructions say work two strands together? That’s way to hot for me. I’ll be doing a single strand and solid coler

    • Hi Rose, no, the pattern is single stranded. You’ll see that each color is designated a letter (A, B, C, D, E) and the pattern tells you which color to use at which time. Hope that helps!

  • I went to the store to buy yarn for this project today. I couldn’t find unique yarn, I went to two stores. When is it coming out?

    • Hi Sue, Unique is already available to our retail partners, but since they may only change over their shelves at a particular time of year, we can’t control what they’ve put out at any given time. We always recommend checking with a sales associate to see if they have the product coming in and/or if they can special order it for you. If you’d like to use a different yarn, we recommend our Tweed Stripes as a similar color-change yarn in a similar weight. Hope that helps!

  • I need a 2X pattern also, because four children and time has not been kind to me.

  • Count me in! Ordered my kit last night. Can hardly wait to start my first CAL. I do have one question about the color sequence, though. The pattern (under “Stitch Explanation”) says the stripe sequence is A-B-C-D-E-D. But, in the picture, it really doesn’t look like the brown and gray stripes are side by side. Am I just seeing this wrong; or is this a typo?

    • Hi Peggy. I am confused about the stripe order too. The directions state to do them in the A B C D etc. order but then it says to do every other row. Do they mean the last two rows? I need clarification on that. Also, I want longer sleeves but since the sleeve is worked from the cuff up to the shoulder, I don’t know how to lengthen the arm. Does anyone have any ideas?

      • Hi Giovanangela, yes, the stripes are each two rows. In the “Stitch Explanation” section of the pattern, it says:
        STRIPE SEQUENCE
        *Work 2 rows with A, 2 rows with B, 2 rows with C, 2 rows with D, 2 rows with E, 2 rows with D; rep from * for Stripe pattern.

        Hope that helps!

        • Here’s where I found a discrepancy (typo?) which may clarify Peggy’s original question:
          In the portion of the instructions I printed out yesterday showing the color photos of the yarns (it’s already been corrected on the LB website) Color C was depicted as Unique Harvest, & Color D was Vanna’s Choice Charcoal Grey — which indeed would show the grey & brown (VC Chocolate/Color E) side by side following the pattern as Peggy describes. But, down by the materials list, it labeled Harvest as actually being Color D (4 balls) & the VC Charcoal as Color C (2 balls) which is more consistent with the photo of the finished jacket. Have I untangled the mystery?
          But no worries — today on the webpage, the Charcoal & Harvest are reversed to reflect their evidently correct letter order, in both the color swatches & the materials list.
          So all should be well! (I went ahead & ordered the kit anyway, which I assume will have the right amounts of the right colors to get the right sequence!) Hope this helps clear up possible confusion for anyone who printed out an earlier version of the page…

          • Thanks, SkyeStitch! Yes, you untangled the mystery. I appreciate your help!

        • Thanks for responding Zontee,
          I read over the pattern several times and realized that the statement about changing color every other row just meant staying in the 2 row color sequence. ( I can have brain fog sometimes) Your response has confirmed that. Now, do you have any suggestions on how to increase sleeve length since it will be worked from the cuff end up?

          • Hi there, first off, have someone help you measure your arm from your shoulder to your wrist so you know the length you’ll need (from the point where your shirt’s body joins the sleeve, down to the wrist). Mine is 21 inches, for instance. Now, if I were making the Medium, the total length of the sweater right now is 14.5 inches on the schematic…so I’d have to add 6.5 inches). Looking at the pattern, I would say that you could repeat the section up to row 5 until you have approx 6.5 inches in the 5-color repeat (getting as close to 6.5 inches as possible), and then continuing to row 6.

            Also, keep in mind that each week, Lauren will be covering a different part of the pattern, so while I’m happy to answer some questions, I’d also recommend that you follow along each week in case she’s going to cover that topic later for the entire group. Hope that helps!

          • Thanks so much! That really does help.

          • I checked with Lauren, and she is going to talk about lengthening the sleeves in a later post, so stay tuned!

  • I love this pattern. I would like to know which color is shown in the picture. I’m thinking it is the Harvest color.

    • Hi Carol, the jacket is striped–the sample shown in the photo uses the exact colors shown in the pattern in the stripe pattern described. See the “Stripe Sequence” section for clarification. Hope that helps!

      • Thank you for pointing that out it makes sense now. This is the first time I’ve done a crochet along. Looks like fun.

  • I am interested in the 2X size as well. I voted as I did because my DH thought that this design was, “my style” and so here we go! would love the pattern changes for the larger sizes. LOVE the look of this sweater. I haven’t been smaller for over 30 years. 3 children for me and never got back to the size 14 but am quite a bit closer.

  • Will there be videos?

    • Hi Lana, no, there won’t be videos, but there will be photos of any steps that Lauren (who is leading our CAL) feels will need clarification. And, as always, you can ask questions and the whole group can chime in to help!

  • Greetings from TX everyone! I’m Michele (824chele on Ravelry.) Mom taught me to crochet in junior high, mostly big granny squares for pillow covers & a never-fully-assembled afghan. Dabbled again briefly just before my youngest was born: a crib blanket (baby & blanket are both teens now!) Got “hooked” in earnest this past Christmas; several afghans, ponchos, slippers, scarves, hats & mittens later, I just finished my first fitted/pieced clothing item, the “Classic Sleeveless Top” in Vanna’s Glamour (hey, a front & a back count as two pieces, right?)
    The cardigan will be for either me or Aunt Jean, whoever it ends up fitting best (we’re both petite, so I’m a little concerned about the sizing; thanks for the tips.) This is my first CAL, which is a good thing — I’m sure I’ll appreciate the support, since it’s also my first project with actual sleeves

  • I am really excited to try this! I have crocheted for over 40years primarily afghans of various sorts; tried shrugs and kids things with mixed results. I am making this for me–would definitely be interested in the 2x or even maybe 3x pattern (not sure yet which size will be better, depending how it works up).

  • Is there a way to sub different colors of Unique in the kit? I love all the crazy colors but want to make it more purple/magenta/blue and less of the peach/brown/orange it has going on.

    • Hi Anya, the kits come as-is, BUT you can still save 15% off your materials if you want to switch out your colors. Just go to the pattern page (http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/L32045.html) and change the colors under the swatches of yarn. Scroll down and where the materials list is, you’ll see that it will have updated to your new color selections. Click “Add all items to cart” and the items will be added with an automatic 15% discount. Enjoy!

      • Thanks Zontee! I think I’ll stay with the original color, since that is what caught my eye in the first place (duh)! Plus they are such great fall colors!
        Another question, do you know what size the model is, and what size cardigan she is wearing? I can’t decide on doing the S or the M… I like the fit she has (don’t want it to be too big and boxy, or too tight with not enough coverage in front).

        • I don’t know off-hand, unfortunately, but this is definitely a design meant to have positive ease (at least 2 inches larger bust measurement than your actual bust), so that’s a good place to start off selecting your size. Lauren (our CAL host) will give more details in her first post this coming Wednesday. Hope that helps!

  • the neck looks wide with shoulders drooping of the model. any way to tighten this up? and make it long sleeved? thanks

    • This is my concern also since most necklines are too wide for me and I also would like longer sleeves. I will probably try to make the shoulders a size smaller than my pattern size if I can figure it out or maybe add extra rows of sc along the neck line. Maybe that could also be a way to lengthen the sleeves. Of course, if I run out of yarn I will have to purchase more later. Hope this idea is helpful.

  • Excited that this won.

  • I’m sylphie, from Northern Kentucky. I will be making this cardigan for my daughter for Christmas.i like the looks of the Unique yarn, but I’m fond of Homespun, so I will make it in one of the two. I just haven’t decided yet. I would also like to see the pattern translated into a 3X for later use for myself.

  • Hi! My name is Stacy. Me and my daughter will be doing this together. I live in Colorado, and she lives in Kansas. I think I will be making this cardigan for one of my daughters (whichever one it fits when it is all said and done… LOL!) My daughter mentioned doing a color variation to get some blacks and pinks in there – but we’ll see. I am going to buy my yarn today.

  • I agree with those who would like to make the cardigan with long sleeves. It looks like it’s going to be warm! I’m wondering how much extra yarn I should get if I want to make long sleeves?

  • Hello, I’m Tabrizia ^Stacy’s daughter. I’m living in Kansas with my husband and precious little man. I want to make this cardigan for myself with some color variations appropriate for my style. My mom actually talked me into trying this (working with a pattern). I never learned to work with patterns for my knitting or crocheting and I am excited to learn how to use patterns to fit specific sizes.

  • My first crochet along! I am very excited. I have trouble picturing projects in different colors or in a solid color, etc. so I am sticking with the recommended yarns, even though they are not my usual colors. I envy those of you who can substitute and envision differences in your heads!! Maybe you could give give lessons to people like me!

  • count me in, although I live in Australia so am going to have to find suitable yarn. I love the silky look of the yarn used. I don’t understand why the amounts of the different balls are different if the pattern is worked evenly with two rows of each color. Also the two fronts do not seem to have the same strips matching each other at the front.

    • Hi there, just want to address your questions: (1) You can email international_sales@lionbrand.com to find local retailers (or sites like yarnover.com.au) who carry our products in Australia. If they don’t carry Lion Brand Unique yet, I’d also recommend Lion Brand Homespun, which is also very silky and comes in some great self-striping colors. It’s more textured, but a similar weight, and there are several people participating in the CAL who are already using it on Ravelry.com, if you’d like to see examples. (2) The Unique yarn is 100 meters a ball, while Vanna’s Choice is 156 meters a ball, which is why you need more balls of Unique than Vanna’s Choice. (3) Since you’re using 3 colors in self-striping yarn, where each ball of yarn is in its color patterning will vary when you make each piece of the sweater. This gives the piece its overall kaleidoscope look. If you prefer more predictable stripes, I’d recommend making the enter piece with 5 solid colors. Hope that helps!

      • thanks so much for replying to all my questions – I did a sample piece yesterday and really like the pattern. Now I can take some of that yarn shopping with me to find what I like in the shops.

      • thank you so much for your reply. I was hoping to get the yarn on sale so will look around when I go shopping next week. We live 60kms away from the nearest yarn store 🙂

  • I am excited to try this sweater – for myself! I will also use a solid yarn and make the sleeves long!
    Crochet on!!

  • Hi! I am Jan and have been crocheting for about 8 years and LOVE it! I started with dishcloths and hats and along the way learned to read patterns on my own. I have tried sweaters in the past but can’t seem to get the arms and shoulders just right. I am hoping this CAL will help with this techinique.

  • I am currently teaching a group of homeless men and women the fine art of Knitting/Crochet (I’m not an expert by any means). One of them requested a crochet cardigan pattern last week and I think this will be just perfect for her, if she can get enough yarn for it.

  • […] Announcing Our Fall 2013 Crochet-Along Project: the Colorfully Modern Cardigan […]

  • I am left handed and have crocheted many blankets, throws and caps but have never crocheted an article of clothing. I am confused on how to do the front panels. When I try to just follow the pattern the front panels have to be flipped to the wrong side to finish the sweater. Not sure if I am making myself clear, but if anyone has an insight on how to make the pattern left handed I would be thrilled to do this crochet a long. Thanks.

  • Hi everyone. I live in Cornelius, NC which is tiny little town about 20 miles north of Charlotte. We’re known for being surrounded by Lake Norman and I love the lake so much. I have fibromyalgia–crocheting is relaxing and I fulfills my need to be creative. This cardigan will be for daughter. This is my first crochet-along and my first cardigan. I hope I’ll be more confident in making clothing after making after this project is finished. Good luck everyone!

  • Question – I noticed that the pattern is allowing hips needing more room than the bust. My body is pretty much straight up and down and made as is would look like a mini-tent on me. I have looked at the pattern and it looks like I can just start with the final stitch count as my cast on and forget the decrease in the decrease rows. Does this sound feasible? I never crocheted something like this before.

  • It’s nice to make something with a virtual group since I don’t stay in one place : ) I am making this for myself and will use the suggested yarn as I love the colors. I would like it in long sleeve as well. I wonder if the yarn listed would be enough?

  • Hi everyone, love reading all the comments about the sweater. I’ve really been excited to start but I have to figure the yarn colors I want. The shawl shown in unique yarn colors moonshadows and oceania is the look I’m after I would have to a some solids. So what do you think I don’t want it to colorful but am I on the right track?

  • Twigwoman and hoping my yarn and pattern arrives sooner than later ~ anxious to attempt this one…….

  • My “kit” arrived yesterday!
    I’m actually scared to open the box and get started! Hope to start tomorrow. I actually like the length of the sleeves – I always end up pushing up my sweater sleeves anyway.

  • I just ordered my kit of materials. Here’s hoping my crochet skills are up for an “intermediate” project!

  • Fayth in Mn: You know Kathy! Us here in Minnesota are hardy Gals those 4,8,9,10 just don’t work for us. Thank guys for REAL WOMEN sizes! Love Ya

  • […] Announcing Our Fall 2013 Crochet-Along Project: the Colorfully Modern Cardigan […]

  • Finally started, took two hours to get a gauge match. The colors in my kit seem much, much darker than the photo above. I found it difficult to get the post stitch started with the darkest part of Oceania and Pomegranate (some fruit lol). Once I got going though, my rusty beginner-intermediate skills came back to me and things went smoothly. I’m glad this is slightly above my skills – I’m going to need a lot of help though!

  • A women’s cardigan can be worn to the office to keep the chill away when you pair it with dress slacks or a skirt. Jeans are a bit too casual for most office settings, but dress slacks and a sweater go well together. You can layer your clothing by wearing a shell under the sweater so you can remove the sweater if you become too warm. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ESCFMLI

  • So glad you added larger sizes – just because I am larger than a model, doesn’t mean I want to wear boring black forever! Very excited to be starting this gorgeous sweater!

  • Carol S Looking forward to making this Cardigan. This is the one I voted for and I am looking forward to learning more about crochet. Live in Colorado so it will keep me warm on chilly days.

    • Welcome, Carol! Just click on the “Crochet-Along” button under “Categories” on the right-hand side of the blog to see all of the crochet-along posts!

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