Cardigan & Waistcoat in King Cole Panache DK - 4273 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigan & Waistcoat Knitting Pattern – King Cole Panache DK (Pattern 4273)

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from King Cole presents two classic knitwear designs: a cardigan and a waistcoat, both knitted in King Cole Panache DK yarn. The pattern is rated intermediate in difficulty and is sized to fit a wide range of figures, covering bust/chest measurements from 91/97 cm to 132/137 cm (36/38 in to 52/54 in), making it an inclusive and versatile choice for a variety of body types.

About King Cole Panache DK

King Cole Panache DK is a double knit weight yarn, offering a smooth and consistent fabric that is well suited to both textured stitch patterns and clean, tailored silhouettes. Its DK weight makes it ideal for structured garments like cardigans and waistcoats, providing drape without being too heavy. As with all King Cole patterns, a donation is made to the Pink Ribbon Foundation with every purchase.

The Cardigan

The cardigan is a classic layering piece designed to be knitted flat and seamed. It is a timeless wardrobe staple that works equally well as a casual everyday garment or a smarter layering option. The inclusion of cable panels adds texture and visual interest, elevating the design beyond a simple stocking stitch construction.

Techniques and Stitches Used

• Stocking stitch – the primary fabric stitch, worked by knitting on right side rows and purling on wrong side rows, creating a smooth, flat surface
• 1x1 Rib – used for welts, cuffs, and button bands, alternating one knit stitch with one purl stitch to create a stretchy, neat edging
• Cable stitch – worked using a cable needle (CN), adding raised rope-like texture to the design; the pattern notes that 3 extra stitches are allowed for each cable within the tension calculation
• Increasing and decreasing – used for shaping armholes, necklines, and sleeve tapers

Materials and Needles

• Yarn: King Cole Panache DK (double knit weight)
• Needles: 4mm (US 6) knitting needles, or the size needed to achieve the correct tension
• Additional equipment: A cable needle is required for working the cable panels

Tension

The stated tension is 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 in) over stocking stitch using 4mm needles. Knitters are advised to adjust needle size accordingly: switch to a finer needle if your stitch count is lower than stated, or a larger needle if your stitch count is higher. Achieving the correct tension is especially important in this pattern because cable stitches affect the stitch count, with 3 extra stitches accounted for per cable repeat.

The Waistcoat

The waistcoat is a sleeveless garment that shares the same yarn, needle size, and general construction approach as the cardigan, making the two designs a natural coordinating set. A waistcoat is a practical and stylish piece that can be worn over shirts, blouses, or lightweight tops, and the use of King Cole Panache DK gives it a polished, refined finish. Like the cardigan, it is sized from 91/97 cm to 132/137 cm, ensuring a broad fit range.

Techniques and Stitches Used

• Stocking stitch – forms the main body fabric of the waistcoat
• 1x1 Rib – used for the lower welt and armhole or neckline edgings, providing a tidy, elasticated finish
• Shaping techniques – including increasing and decreasing for armhole and neckline shaping, worked on both right side and wrong side rows as directed