Knitted Cardigan: Noro Madara Step-by-Step Sweater

Happy knitting Y’all, and welcome back to YoungFolk Knits! If you’re new around here, I’m Kaci, and this little slice of the internet is where I dive into all things fiber arts – from knitting to spinning, and even a bit of sewing. Nestled on a small farm in Arkansas, life’s pretty buzzing with beekeeping, tending to our gardens, and just soaking up the outdoors. So, if that mix of yarn and country living sounds like your cup of tea, stick around!

Alright, let’s get into the knitty-gritty of today’s chat – I’ve got a freshly finished knitted cardigan I’m super proud of, some progress on current knits, a peek at progress on this year’s goals, and a quick spinning update. So, grab your knitting, and let’s jump in.

Bees update

First up, the bees. Let me tell you, these little workers have been busy! With spring in full swing, our fields are becoming a clover paradise, which is fantastic for the bees (and soon, for the honey too). However, it’s not all sunny in the bee world. Challenges like pesticides and new pests make keeping our hives thriving a tough gig. Despite the difficulties, it’s heartwarming to see them buzzing around, doing their thing. 

Knitted Cardigan Noro Madara Step-by-Step

Now, onto the yarn talk. I’ve recently wrapped up my step-by-step cardigan, a test knit I did for Florence from Handmade by Florence. Knit in Noro Madara, this cardigan has become a fast favorite. It’s comfy, stylish, and pairs wonderfully with my high-waisted linen pants. The double-knit button band and raglan shaping make it a fantastic project for beginners too. However, working with this yarn might need  patience, as it tends to break if you’re not gentle. 

Ravelry: YoungFolkKnits’ Step by step cardigan TEST

Pohjola Pullover

In other knitting news, I’m working on the Pohjola Pullover and the Winona Dress, diving deep into color work and challenging my skills with every stitch. These projects are not just about the final piece but the joy and challenges of the process, proving that every knit and purl has its story.

Ravelry: YoungFolkKnits’ Pohjola

Knitting Journal

As for goals, I’m quite chuffed with how I’m keeping up with my knitting journal – it’s been a real game-changer in tracking my progress and reflections. And yes, I’ve been on a bit of a knitted cardigan spree, and I’m, excited to join a Make-a-long hosted by Cece from stitchwitchcraft all about cardigans . It think it will be a fantastic way to push my skills and finish some cozy pieces.

Spinning update

I’ve also been spinning up a storm, working towards knitting a sweater from my handspun yarn. It’s a process filled with anticipation and excitement at seeing how the yarn comes together. My first sweater project I have lined up for my handspun is the Traveler hoodie by Andrea Mowry. 

Before I sign off, a shoutout to my current favorite spring socks – the Tender Age socks. They’re the perfect companion to my clogs and embody the essence of spring. 

Remember, whether it’s a complex knit or just keeping your plants alive, every bit of effort counts. Thanks for hanging out with me, and until next time, happy knitting Y’all!

Check out YoungFolkKnits Episode covering the topics in the blog post (Knitted Cardigan, Knitted Dress, Hand Knit Socks, Pohjola pullover):