Hi! I’m Cass (@CraftyProfessor on Instagram) and I’m excited to share my Nikki Cardigan Hack. I have been inspired this summer by long flowy cardigans, so this was a great opportunity to try my hand at one! I made a few modifications to this pattern, but they are all super easy! I used some rayon/viscose spandex from my stash that I’m pretty sure I thrifted.
The main modifications, that I’ll outline below are
- Added length
- Fuller, shorter sleeves
- Hemmed sleeves and bottom
Length
My measurements put me in between sizes 8 and 10, and since I was not going for a fitted look, I went up to size 10 (though this was probably not necessary). I am 5’4” and I wanted a LONG cardigan, so I held the paper pattern pieces up to my body and decided, somewhat arbitrarily to add 15 inches in length to the longest version. This was pretty simple – I just extended the front and back pieces down 15 inches. Make sure to also extend the collar band by the same amount.
Sleeves
Next, I adjusted the sleeves. I wanted fuller elbow-length sleeves, but not necessarily flutter sleeves. I started with the Sheona Flutter Sleeve Tutorial, but increased the space at the armscye as well as the sleeve hem so they didn’t ‘flutter’ as much. But to make this work, I also had to increase the armscye distance on the bodice, so I did this by scooping out the underarm a bit. I am by no means a professional pattern drafter, so there may be better ways to achieve this, but this method seemed to work for me! It doesn’t have to be exact because the fabric has stretch. Another way to do this without adjusting the bodice would be to add a few gathers at the sleeve head for a slightly different look.
Hemming
Finally, I decided to hem the bottom and sleeves. This was a personal style preference and is not necessary. However, you will need to take this into account when you are figuring out how long you want the cardigan to be. As I mentioned, my fabric has a lot of drape and is likely a bit longer than a light sweater knit or a more stable knit might turn out.
I did make a belt, per the instructions, but I did not include belt loops, as I wanted a sleeker silhouette. I thought it looked too much like a robe when I wore the belt, but it would be a great beach coverup or robe as well, so I’m happy to have the belt for future unknown uses!
Overall, I am so excited with how this turned out. I wore it wine tasting, which is where I took these photos and I felt extra hip. There was just something special about being draped in so much soft fabric! This was a really easy and fun make, and while it seems like a LOT of fabric, I don’t think it took that much – probably about 2 – 2.5 yards. I hope you’ll give it a try and tag me so I can see your creations! Feel free to send me a message on Instagram (@craftyprofessor) if you have any questions! Thanks for reading!
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