Tale of Two (Canyon) Cardigans

When Tami asked me if I would be a tester for the upcoming Canyon Cardigan from Love Notions* (aff link) I was THRILLED!  Not only did I need one of these sweaters in every color and design imaginable – but I was joining the ranks of other testers who I adore (I was honored to say the least).

I instantly knew I would be doing view C (the waterfall version) as I had a sweater I was looking to copy that I bought in Rome six years ago, that I have worn until the seams are popping (literally)!

I chose a lightweight sweater knit that I scored for $3/yd at G Street Fabrics in Maryland for my first version.  I knew I was pushing it to add pockets to something so lightweight, but I mean COME ON – who doesn’t want pockets in every garment they create?  Haha, maybe it’s just me. ☺️ – At just around 2 yards of fabric, I think this is a great sweater for $6 worth of fabric and a little bit of effort!

I cut 3/4 sleeves for this version, and like that there is enough room for air to circulate!

The pattern is designed with an inverted pleat in the back…  The basting stitches are still visible here (whoops  😳), but I still kind of like it this way…

I would recommend that if you are going to do the pockets that you bar tack the two ends down so they lay better.  In a sweater as colorful and textured as this one, you can’t even see it!  Also, I did not have to do a full bust adjustment, which was a welcome change.  I did, however, take 1 inch off the bodice and 1 inch off the skirt to accommodate my 5’2″ height.  I then had to adjust the neckband accordingly.

For my second version, I selected a bamboo knit for the solid black portion (bodice and sleeves) and a rib knit for the cuffs, skirt and neckband (no pockets this time).  This version is EVERYTHING I had hoped it would be!  I can see it being worn both during the week for work and on the weekends while running errands (well, maybe when it’s not almost 100 degrees outside).

Again you will see that I left the pleat basting stitches in – it would open up the skirt section more if I removed them.  For this version I just serged the edges; my rolled hem attempt did not go well and either gave me a wavy lettuce hem or knotted my machine so badly that it caused me to use all the words mommy should avoid in front of the kiddos.

I opted for a belt tie in the rib knit and really like it.  This fabric didn’t have enough drape to lay nicely, but the belt makes ALL the difference.  I have to always accommodate my swayback when sewing and this small addition made a huge difference and I think is very flattering.

That’s it – grab the Canyon Cardigan* while it’s on sale for just $6 and happy fall-time sewing!

*Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive minimal compensation if you make a purchase using the links above; all opinions above are my own.