Inspired by the Fashion Framework theme of pleats, I designed this cardigan to be a knit version of a classic buttoned shirt with a pleat in the back yoke. The inverted box pleat falls away to reveal a lace panel. The same lace motif is repeated along the button bands. Seed stitch hems and collar offset the feminine lace with a slightly more rustic look. The wool/silk blend yarn allows the pleat to drape open while the finer weight of the yarn prevents the piece from becoming excessively heavy with the extra weight of the pleated fabric. This cardigan will be a unique addition to your winter wardrobe.

The cardigan is worked flat, bottom-up, with set-in sleeves. The front, back, and sleeves are sewn. The button and buttonhole bands are worked by picking up stitches along the center front, and then the collar is worked by picking up stitches along the neckline.

Finished Measurements:
-Bust circumference: 31 (35, 39, 43) {47, 51, 55}“ / 78.5 (89, 99, 109) {119.5, 129.5, 140} cm.
-Length: 22½ (23½, 24, 25) {25¾, 26¼, 26¼}” / 57 (59.5, 61, 63.5) {65.5, 66.5, 66.5} cm

Designed to be worn with 2-4” / 5-10 cm positive ease at bust. Shown in Size S with 3” / 7.5 cm positive ease.
Full schematic is shown in images at left.

Materials
1150 (1275, 1400, 1550) {1675, 1850, 1925} yards/ 1050 (1175, 1300, 1425) {1550, 1700, 1775} meters Purl SOHO Mulberry Merino (247 yards/ 225 meters per 3.5 ounce/ 100 gram skein; 80% merino, 20% silk) in color #1268MM Red Pine.

Needles and Gauges:
US #4 (3.5mm) straight or circular needles and DPNs, or one size smaller than needles used to obtain gauge.

US #5 (3.75mm) straight or circular needles, or size needed to obtain gauge.

On larger needles, in St st, 22 sts x 32 rows = 4” / 10.2 cm after blocking. Adjust needle size if needed to obtain gauge.

Notions:
Tapestry needle
Stitch markers
seven 5/8” buttons

Techniques:
The abbreviations page, which lists all techniques used, is pictured at left.
Pattern involves working multiple shapings (e.g. shoulders and neckline) simultaneously, while also adding or removing stitches from the stitch patterns. Explicit row-by-row directions are not provided, but general tips are given.

Ravelry Downloadable Pattern:
Pattern is a 9-page pdf, consisting of one cover page; two pages of information on sizing, materials, and written and charted stitch patterns; one page of abbreviations; four pages of instructions; and one schematic page.