I’ve said it before and I will say it again – I love Grainline Studio Patterns.  For me, it is a combination of great patterns that go well together and build a very wearable wardrobe, unique design details, and impeccable drafting.  So far, I have made the Alder, Archer, Cascade, Lark, and now their latest pattern, the Driftless Cardigan.  I do intend to make them all, right down to the cute little Stowe bag.

The Driftless is a light layering cardigan, perfect for any season.  It has a loose, casual fit and the option for button closures the front.  I didn’t go for the buttons, since I prefer to wear cardigans open, but they do look really cute on Lauren’s version (exact same colour, too!)

My favorite design detail on this sweater is the pockets.  They hang open in a slouchy way and are very comfortable to place my hands in.  I also like the horizontal seam that is created by this pocket method.  The seam runs all the way around, including the front band, so there is a great opportunity for colour blocking here!  The hem can be straight or separated with high/low bands.  I like the way the separation looks, it adds nice visual interest.

The shoulders of the Driftless are dropped, making the sleeves very easy to attach.  The whole pattern was simple to assemble and satisfying to sew, I would definitely make this again.  For my version I used a soft, drapey knit with one way stretch.  It is very light weight and it suits the pattern well.  Special thanks to my Dad for taking these pictures for me, the cheery blossoms are in full bloom in Vancouver and it is downright dreamy 🙂

Are you excited by the Driftless Cardigan?

Final Stats:

Total project time:  Approximately 3 hours, not including cutting pattern and fabric

Fabric: 2 meters of 1-way stretch knit

Pattern: Grainline Studio Driftless Cardigan 

Adjustments: None

About the author

Helen

Helen Wilkinson is the designer and founder of Helen's Closet Patterns. She also co-hosts the Love to Sew Podcast! Helen is obsessed with all things sewing and strives to share her passion and knowledge with the sewing community.