Changing size of cardigan pattern

[Chloe1]

I am using Lopi yarn to knit a cardigan. Using a #10.5 circular needle the gauge is 3 st = an inch.

Largest bust size for pattern is 48" bust casting on 133 sts.
I have actually cast on 133 sts using 10.5 needle and end up with approx. a 34" wide piece. My daughter definitely needs 48" for waistband and bust.

The pattern calls for a #8 needle to start waistband, casting on 133 sts knitting ribbing to 1.5" and then increasing 12 sts in next row of ribbing increasing that row to 145 sts and then changing to 10.5" needle to start body of sweater.

Does anyone have suggestions?

[MerigoldinWA]

Gauge can be such a bear (for me at least). Are you getting the gauge called for to get the 48"? Sometimes I get gauge on my swatch, but when I actually start knitting my gauge is not what I wanted, and I have to start over. Is the 34" you're getting for the width of the piece going to be doubled, as in is this only the back or front, or if done in one piece is this what only half of it measures? Seems obvious, but I don't know your experience level, and you may not have thought of that. If it was only half, you would be getting pretty huge though.

If you were getting gauge for the body and the math works out that it is going to be the right size but the bands seem too small you could make the bands over the full 145, even on the 10.5 if you have too. I've always heard the bottom of a sweater should pull in a little, but if you have a generous hip measurement it may be better for it to be more full. You might try the full 145 and a 9 for the ribbing, if the gauge is going to be right for the body. Also, I just have to say, that sometimes things seem wrong at some point but if you started with the right gauge on your swatch, sometimes everything works out if you just keep going.

[Chloe1]

Hi MerigoldinWA,

Sorry I ddn't reply properly. I understand and appreciate the way you have this setup. Apparently my response as follows was sent to you.

The 133 sts cast on resulted
> in 34" is for the entire
> cardigan. The front is not
> joined. I am using circular
> needles.
>
> I think your suggestion of
> doing the 145 sts right off
> is what I should do. I
> considered this as well but
> needed to hear it from someone
> else......... at least give
> it a try.


I have started the sweater band with 10.5 needle and intend to continue the body with an size 11 needle. I am prepared to rip and start over if necessary. Will let you know the result.

Chloe1

[MerigoldinWA]

Thanks Chloe, I did get the message. We have a good bunch of moderators. Your idea sounds good. I'm always prepared to rip if I have to. I'll look forward to hearing how it came out.