Handspun Two-Yarn Plied Heritage Stitch Cardigan

Brand: Sundazed
Origin: Austria

70s Vintage (mint condition)


Tag: 54
Size: XL

Fabric: Knit
Composition: Wool

Measurements (cm)
Chest: 58
Length: 58
Shoulder: 44
Sleeve: 65

This chunky knit V-neck button-up cardigan is crafted from a marled wool-blend yarn, producing a textured and speckled effect that enhances its artisanal appeal. Designed with an oversized silhouette and a slightly cropped length, the relaxed aesthetic is further emphasized by its drop-shoulder construction and full-length sleeves. The large tortoiseshell-style buttons on the front closure complement the cardigan’s organic, rustic feel, reinforcing its heritage-inspired design. From a technical standpoint, this garment is classified as a handspun-effect marled knit cardigan, constructed using a fully-fashioned knit technique to ensure efficiency and reduce fabric waste. The primary stitch employed is stockinette stitch (RS knit, WS purl), with additional marled two-yarn knit techniques, alternating contrasting yarns in a twisted ply to create the distinctive speckled pattern. The 1x1 rib stitch is used for structural reinforcement at the hem, cuffs, and button placket. The gauge is medium to chunky (approximately 4-6 stitches per inch), contributing to the cardigan’s loft and airy warmth. The knit structure provides moderate elasticity, with a slightly uneven texture due to the marled effect, giving it a handmade quality. The material composition is primarily wool-blend, potentially mixed with acrylic or alpaca to enhance loft and softness. The yarn type consists of marled twisted yarn, likely plied with two contrasting tones to create depth. The bulky to super bulky weight (5-6 WPI) further enhances warmth and texture. The fiber content is estimated to include 50-70% wool, offering resilience and elasticity, 20-40% acrylic or nylon for durability and shape retention, and 10% additional fibers, possibly alpaca or recycled materials, to introduce variations in texture and softness. The construction and pattern techniques highlight a panel-based design, with front and back panels knitted separately and joined at the side seams. The sleeves are likely picked up and knit downward from the armhole, utilizing a set-in construction for a clean finish. The V-neckline features a rib-knit button placket, ensuring both structure and flexibility. The sleeve construction consists of full-length, slightly tapered set-in sleeves for a balanced fit. Seams are fully-fashioned to minimize bulk, with overlocked or whipstitched internal seams preventing unraveling. Edge finishing is reinforced with ribbed cuffs, hem, and button placket, maintaining shape and preventing stretching. Designed for a relaxed, slightly oversized fit, this cardigan incorporates moderate positive ease to create a cozy drape. While boxy in structure, a subtle waist taper refines the silhouette. The drape is structured yet allows natural movement, thanks to the high wool content, ensuring both comfort and warmth. Stylistically, this cardigan evokes a handmade, artisanal quality, symbolizing warmth, nostalgia, and comfort. The marled texture introduces visual depth, enhancing the organic aesthetic. The design is inspired by traditional fisherman’s sweaters, modernized through a boxy silhouette. With roots in heritage knitwear from Scotland and Ireland, where marled yarns were historically favored, this piece reflects both tradition and modern sensibilities. Historically, the marled effect gained popularity in early 20th-century workwear sweaters, valued for their durability and aesthetic variation. The style saw a resurgence in the late 1980s and 1990s grunge fashion movement, where oversized knitwear and raw textures became key elements of casual dressing. From a fashion relevance perspective, this cardigan aligns with the current 'rustic, handmade' aesthetic resurgence, seen in luxury knitwear and slow fashion brands emphasizing traditional craftsmanship. It fits into the broader movement advocating for sustainable and artisanal techniques, appealing to consumers who appreciate both heritage influences and contemporary styling. While already a well-executed design, potential improvements could include a wider button placket for enhanced structural reinforcement and a more refined seaming method for increased durability. This mid-gauge, high-end marled knit cardigan offers a harmonious blend of heritage craftsmanship and modern styling. With its oversized fit, textured detailing, and timeless V-neck silhouette, it is a versatile knitwear piece that resonates with both contemporary and classic knitwear markets. Its carefully considered construction, rich material composition, and nod to traditional techniques make it a standout garment that balances practicality, comfort, and artisanal appeal.