Clue 2 is all about body shaping and sleeve separation.
With your yoke complete it’s time to move into the next section of your Daingean cardigan or sweater. In Clue 2, we’ll begin shaping the body of your sweater or cardigan, with three different body options given for both.
What You’ll Knit This Week
In Clue 2, you’ll separate the sleeves from the body and start working the lower torso. This section is knit in the round and worked in stockinette stitch, allowing your yarn and shaping to take centre stage.
Here’s what to expect for each version:
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The sweater is continued in the round with adjustments/modifications chosen by you.
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The cardigan continue with the bridge stitches maintained at the centre of the front. You’ll reinforce this section in a later clue before cutting.
Along the way, you’ll have the option to adjust shaping and add length as needed. This is a good time to try on your garment and decide how you want it to fit.
Tips and Modifications
In this clue it's possible to tweak the bust size and body length for your chosen garment. Don't worry, we'll be right there with you and you'll have tutorials waiting for you in Teachable too.
Sleeve Separation & Changing Bust Size
Once the yoke is complete, you’ll place the sleeve stitches on hold and cast on stitches at each underarm. This creates space for the body to continue and helps shape the armhole.
If you’d like to make small adjustments to the bust or upper body width, this is a great place to do so. If you have already decided to change your bust size, you may have adjusted the number of increases in your final yoke increase round. You can also adjust the number of stitches cast on across the underarm (keeping in mind that this will also have an impact on the size of the sleeves).
Working the Body
The body is worked down from the underarm, and from this point forward you’ll continue in stockinette stitch. The fabric is smooth and relaxed, which makes it ideal for length customisation.
Here we will work the body in the round from the top down. Initially, you will work straight until just below the fullest bust point. Then you can decide if you are working straight, A-line or hourglass waist shaping.
All body shapes will finish with a small colourwork motif and ribbing.
If you want to add or reduce length, now’s the time. You might also want to plan ahead for where you’ll finish your hem. The final clue will offer a few finishing options so don't worry too much right now.
For Cardigan Knitters: Maintaining the Bridge Stitches
If you’re knitting the Daingean Cardigan, keep working the Bridge stitches at the centre front. These stitches are no longer increased or shaped just maintained in stockinette as a placeholder (except for the bottom hem).
Later, you’ll reinforce and cut the steek to open up the cardigan. For now, it’s simply part of your flat knitting, sitting quietly at the front of your work.
Live on YouTube
If you have any questions about clue 2 of our Daingean Cardian or Sweater or you'd like to join us for a clue 2 chat you'll find us live on YouTube!
Date: May 22nd, 4.30pm Irish time.
Where: Over on YouTube live right here.
Replay Available: Can’t make it live? Watch the replay at your convenience.
Don't forget to drop into Knithub to join the chat!
And if you'd like to join us for the Spring Knit-along just click here.
Share Your Progress
You’re halfway there, can you believe it?
Share your progress using #StolenStitches, or check in with your fellow knitters in Knithub. If you’ve made body modifications or colour tweaks, this is a great clue to show your work.
Every Daingean looks a little different. That’s part of what makes it special.
Wishing you all the best for clue 2 of the Daingean KAL and we will see you in Knithub!
