A single crochet edging around the bottom edge of body and sleeves prevents the stockinette-stitch edge from rolling, and a zipper up the center front gives the sweater a clean finish. Knit it in a fiery orange, or, for a more conservative version, try it in a cool blue.
Finished Size: 35 (39, 44, 48, 52)" bust/chest circumference, zipped. Cardigan shown measures 39". Note: Ribbed sections of garment can be blocked wider to produce a slightly larger finished chest size.
Yarn: Cascade Yarns Cascade 220 Heathers (100% wool; 220 yd [201 m]/100 g): #2425 rust, 6 (6, 7, 8, 9) skeins.
Needles: Body and Sleeves—Size 9 (5.5 mm). Collar—Size 8 (5 mm). Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge.
Notions: Markers (m); removable markers or waste yarn; tapestry needle; size 7 (4.5 mm) crochet hook; 26 (26, 26, 27, 28)" separating zipper; sharp-point sewing needle and matching thread.
Gauge: 19 1⁄2 sts and 27 rows = 4" in St st on larger needles; 25 sts and 27 rows = 4" in k3, p2 rib on larger needles, with ribbing patted gently to lie flat.
Originally Published: Interweave Knits, Summer 2006.