Cardigans in Stylecraft Bellissima DK - 9848 - Downloadable PDF

Stylecraft Bellissima DK Cardigans – Pattern 9848: Detailed Summary

Pattern 9848 from Stylecraft is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern featuring two classic cardigan designs worked in Bellissima DK yarn. Both garments are rated as easy/beginner-friendly and are sized to fit a wide range of bust measurements, from 81–86 cm (32–34 in) up to 122–127 cm (48–50 in), making this an inclusive and versatile pattern collection. The two designs share the same yarn and needle requirements but differ in neckline style, silhouette, and finished length, giving knitters a choice of look from a single pattern booklet.

Design One: V Neck Cardigan

The first garment is a V Neck Cardigan featuring a longer, more relaxed silhouette. This design is shown knitted in Luscious Leaf (shade 7216), a rich green colourway from the Bellissima DK range.

Measurements and Sizing

• To fit bust: 81–86, 91–97, 102–107, 112–117, 122–127 cm (32–34, 36–38, 40–42, 44–46, 48–50 in)
• Actual bust measurement: 103, 114, 123, 134, 143 cm (40½, 45, 48½, 52¾, 56¼ in)
• Full length: 66, 68, 72, 75, 77 cm (26, 26¾, 28¼, 29½, 30¼ in)
• Sleeve length: 43, 43, 44, 45, 45 cm (17, 17, 17¼, 17¾, 17¾ in)

Techniques and Construction

The V Neck Cardigan is constructed in separate pieces — back, left front, right front, and sleeves — which are then seamed together. The body is worked primarily in reverse stocking stitch, which gives the fabric a distinctive textured, purl-side-out appearance that adds visual interest without complex stitch work. This makes it an ideal project for knitters who are comfortable with basic knit and purl stitches and are ready to explore simple shaping and construction.

The ribbed welts and cuffs are worked in a 2x2 rib (knit 2, purl 2) over a minimum of 12 rows, providing a neat, elasticated edge that keeps the garment's hems and cuffs tidy and well-fitting. Shoulder shaping is achieved through cast-off rows, and the centre back neck stitches are placed on a stitch holder for later finishing.

A key feature of this version is the V-shaped neckline, which requires the use of a 4 mm circular needle (100 cm long) to pick up and work the front band around the V-neck opening. This technique — picking up stitches around a shaped neckline — is a useful skill for beginner knitters to develop, and the pattern guides knitters through it clearly.

The pattern also incorporates easy cable designs as referenced on the pattern cover, adding a decorative element that introduces knitters to the use of a cable needle without requiring advanced cable experience.

Stitches Used

• 2x2 Rib (knit 2, purl 2) for welts, cuffs, and front bands
• Reverse stocking stitch for the main body fabric
• Easy cable stitch as a decorative panel feature
• Standard cast on, cast off, and stitch holder techniques for shaping and construction

Materials Required

• Stylecraft Bellissima DK, shade Luscious Leaf 7216
• 6, 6, 7, 8, 8 x 100g balls (depending on size)
• 1 pair 4