A “Soubrette” is a vocal and character “type” in musical theater and light opera. The Soubrette’s voice is high and light yet powerful enough to be heard over an orchestra without amplification; her character is usually in a supporting role, often adding a bit of comedy and sass to the plot. A complimentary role that packs a lot of punch.

The Soubrette Cardi is meant to play a supporting role in the wardrobe while calling plenty of delightful attention to itself. Made in a light, laceweight yarn for a gossamer-like effect, this cardi is perfect for cool evenings or the AC. Wear it open, or close it with the addition of a button and crocheted-loop closure.

Construction Notes:
Worked from the back of the neck and shoulders-down, short row shaping is used to help it curve around the neck and shoulders without flipping. The set-in sleeves of the cardigan are created simultaneously with the upper bodice in a technique originally described by Barbara Walker (photo tutorial included), and the garter-lace edging is worked right along with the bodice.

Once the garment is worked below the underarm, most of the sts are put on hold while some of the front sts are worked to the full length of the bodice. Sts are then picked up from the selvage edge of the garment and worked along with the sts that you’d originally put on hold. Sound different? It is, so I’ve included a detailed photo tutorial to help you along and allow you to check your work as you go.

Because the cardigan is not meant to close fully over the bust, the sizing is based on twice the back-measurement. In other words, the size recommended for a 29” bust is based on 2 x the 14.6” back measurement (2 x 14.6= 29.2”). If you would like a bit more coverage on the front, consider making the next size up.

Sizes 29(32, 35, 38, 41, 44, 47, 50)“ finished bust require 2(2, 2, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3) skeins Juniper Moon’s Findley (798 yds/100g 50% merino, 50% silk) or Plucky LACE (750 yards/skein), or approximately 960(1100, 1275, 1375, 1500, 1650, 1775, 1825) yards of laceweight yarn. Size 41” may require an additional skein of Plucky LACE yarn if the skeins are at all undersized.