This handmade cardigan is a wearable work of art. It is truly a one-of-a-kind piece with elevated styling notes and a sophisticated palette. By paring down the color, adding a boldly contrasting border and focusing on elements like fit and texture, the resulting piece is eye-catching, form-fitting treasure.
Every detail of this sweater was subject to scrutiny during each phase of creation, starting with the selection of yarn. I carefully considered which yarns would work best for each section of the cardigan. For example, in high friction places, such as inner arm and torso sides, I used a wool from Germany that will withstand pilling. To counterbalance the inherent weight of this yarn, I selected softer wool blends for places like the nape of the neck and pulse points on the wrist. A side benefit of curating the palette so carefully is that each square has a slightly different hue. These differences are enhanced by the fiber chosen for the borders. This merino, cashmere, nylon blend is anything but basic black. There are undertones of gray, brown and purple coursing through the fiber. I'm sure the depth of color is why the artist who hand-dyed the skein called it "Smokey Eye".
Many cardigans of this nature can be rather boxy. To prevent a look that is too casual, I carefully planned where each square would be placed. In areas where a bit more room would be welcome, such as the shoulder and hip, I chose yarns of a slightly heavier weight and blocked them a tad larger. To accentuate the waist (or celebrate the illusion of a waist - this is a belted cardigan, after all!), I picked lighter yarns and blocked them a bit smaller. The result is a form-flattering fit, unusual for a piece made mostly of squares.
The unique belt is a piece of art, with both sides having been embroidered by hand. One side features an intricate all-over hourglass pattern. I love how this motif echoes the texture of the granny squares. The other side is a nod to knitted cables, with with stitches that intertwine throughout the middle of the belt. Tying the belt with a simple twist will allow both sides of the embroidery to shine.
Early on in my creative process, I realized that the perimeters of the doubled shawl collar and the belt would need to be tacked down to keep the modern lines of the cardigan looking neat. Hair up or down, you'll never have to think twice about how the collar looks because it has been meticulously stitched to the squares it abuts. Similarly, the belt has been carefully stitched to the seam of the squares in the back of the cardigan. As a result, it is perfectly aligned when it is tied for a polished look or left open for a more casual feel.
Given all the details of this piece, the longer the eye lingers, the more it appreciates and enjoys. The palette, the texture and the silhouette each have unexpected elements to delight both the wearer and observer.
Dimensions:
Width across back under arms: 21" (53 cm)
Length from shoulder to hip: 30" (76 cm)
Sleeve circumference: 13" (33 cm)
Sleeve length: 20" (51 cm)
Comments on Fit: Though the cardigan's overall effect is that of sophistication, it has an easy effortlessness to it. As a result, it can be worn beautifully by a wide range of bodies. I believe the sweater will look lovely on busts ranging from 36-46", B-DD cups. Obviously, the smaller the frame, the more the sweater will overlap in the front. Larger busts will fill in the shawl collared chest marvelously. The sweater is intended to cover the derriere, but those shorter than ~5'4" may find the length overwhelming.
Materials: It may be tempting to say this is a black and white cardigan. But the palette is so much more complicated than that. There are over 7 different undyed color ways in this cardigan, meaning there are subtle differences between the squares. I picked skeins that were 100% wool, wool/nylon blends and merino/cashmere/nylon blends and used them appropriately throughout the piece. The moody black color is a merino/cashmere/nylon blend delicate to the touch, but tough enough to have a strong presence.
Care:
Dry clean only.
Return Policy:
Your satisfaction with your order is my paramount concern. However, given the nature of my handmade business, I must adhere to this return policy: If you are unsatisfied with your order, please contact me within 7 days. If more than 7 days have gone by since your purchase, I will not offer you a refund or exchange.
To be eligible for a return, your item must be unused and in the same condition that you received it. It must also be in the original packaging. Once I have received the piece, I will reimburse you after inspection to ensure it is in its original condition.
Return Shipping:
To return your product, mail your product to: Bloom Handmade Studio, LLC, 11 River Street, Apt 307, Sleepy Hollow, NY, 10591.
You will be responsible for paying for your own shipping costs to return your item. Shipping costs are non-refundable. Please use a trackable shipping service and purchase insurance commensurate with the price of the piece.
© COPYRIGHT NOTE: All of my designs, photos and descriptions are under copyright. They may not be copied, duplicated, reproduced or republished.