April 2019: Pattern has been updated to include the level of detail I write with now. If you purchased the previous version, there were NO ISSUES, but you will have gotten a Ravelry email to download the new version for free if you’d like to update your library.

Vodka Gimlet is an open cardigan with simple embellishment and a narrow, delicate shawl collar. I wanted something with a loose, casual look, but the illusion of being a bit more tailored. A beautiful slipped stitch detail creates a flattering “waist” on the open sweater, and is echoed on the collar and hem. A short length allows for a belt or loose shirt to show beneath.

The collar is narrower and more delicate than a traditional shawl collar, so it can be worn up or down, and the detail is the same on both sides.

You can alter this easily for fit and notes are included in the pattern on how and where to do so. You can also move the waist detail up or down as your figure requires, and you can create a classic button band or wider shawl collar if you prefer.

It’s knit in The Plucky Knitter Primo, in a gray called Barely Birch, a perfect neutral to wear with anything.

The subtle color shading of a hand-dyed yarn really pops in the slipped stitch detail, and the mix of merino and cashmere makes for a perfect midweight fabric - soft, a bit drapey, and warm without being heavy. If you cannot get Plucky Knitter yarn, see the finished projects of Ravelry for a variety of yarn substitutes.

Sizes:

36.5(39.25,42.5,44.75,47.5)(50,52.5,55.5,59.5)“
92.75(99.75,108,113.75,120.75)(127,133.25,141,151.25)cm Sizes based on width of sweater around bust, including collar worn open. Based on finished fabric.

For fit shown, I choose the size that allows for about 4”/10cm of positive ease, based on your bust. Since sweater is not meant to close, however, it can be worn with any amount of ease desired.

Yardage per size:

1100(1200,1300,1400,1500)(1600,1700,1900,1900)yds
1005(1100,1190,1280,1375)(1465,1555,1645,1740)m worsted weight yarn. I suggest a merino cashmere mix for similar weight and drape to the sample. This looks lovely in a solid, a heather, a tweed, or a subtle hand dyed yarn.