Have you seen issue 2 of The Crochet Project? The theme is Woodland Whimsy and there are some beautiful crochet patterns in there by some wonderful British designers.
My Xylia cardigan is in this issue too! Xylia means 'of the wooded land' and I think this name suits this pattern perfectly as the fancy granite stitch that forms the body of the cardigan has the wonderful texture of bark found on old trees found in the woodlands of England.
The cardigan has an asymmetrical design and manages to be both feminine with its pretty scalloped edges and yet functional with a handy little pocket and simple shaping. I think it is guaranteed to become a wardrobe classic.
Xylia is crocheted in one piece from the top down. Markers are used to note where yoke increases take place and once the armholes have been separated, the cardigan is crocheted straight down to the waist.
I love the fit of this cardigan as it sits on the high hip, perfect for pairing with skirts or jeans. The buttons allow the cardigan to be worn open at the top or bottom. I personally like the first two buttons open at the top as this shows off the asymmetrical design the best. It is available in 7 sizes from 34" to 56" chest.
I crocheted Xylia using Woolyknit DK classics yarn which is 100% merino wool. I like the soft brown shade that helps echo the woodland theme. The yarn is soft and warm and has the perfect drape for this cardigan. For substituting yarns I would suggest a 100% wool DK weight yarn that has a matt finish as this will show off the textured pattern to its best. Yarns such as Rowan Pure Wool or Purelife Organic wool, King Cole merino blend DK, Natural Dye Studio Dazzle BFL DK or Wensleydale Longwool Sheepshop DK would be great alternatives.
The Woodland Whimsy Collection can be found here and my Xylia cardigan here. I hope you like it. Please support this British design collection. I'm looking forward to the Knit Project issue 1 which will also be out soon.
Photo copyright for the top image is Kat Goldin of The Crochet Project.