Woman's Cardigans in Sirdar Summer Linen DK - 8138 - Downloadable PDF

Woman's Cardigans in Sirdar Summer Linen DK – Pattern 8138

This intermediate-level knitting pattern from Sirdar (pattern number 8138) provides instructions for two elegant women's cardigans: a long-sleeved version and a short-sleeved version. Both designs are worked in Sirdar Summer Linen DK, a lightweight double knit yarn that lends the finished garments a relaxed, breathable quality ideal for warmer seasons. The pattern is available as a downloadable PDF, making it instantly accessible for knitters eager to cast on right away.

Designs Included

Long-Sleeved Cardigan

The long-sleeved cardigan is a classic, versatile wardrobe staple suited to layering across multiple seasons. Its sleeves are adjustable in length, with a standard finished sleeve measurement ranging from approximately 46 to 48 cm (18 to 19 inches) depending on the size knitted. This version is worked in Sirdar Summer Linen DK shade 203 as shown in the pattern photography.

• Yarn required: 10 to 17 balls of Sirdar Summer Linen DK (50g balls), depending on size
• Sizes covered: To fit bust 81/86 cm (32/34 in) through to 132/137 cm (52/54 in)
• Actual finished measurements: 92 cm (36¼ in) to 143 cm (56¼ in) across the full size range
• Full length: 55 cm (21¾ in) to 68 cm (26¾ in) depending on size

Short-Sleeved Cardigan

The short-sleeved version offers a lighter, more summery silhouette, making it a perfect choice for warmer weather or as a smart cover-up. The short sleeves measure just 4 cm (1½ inches) in length across all sizes, giving the garment a neat, cropped-sleeve finish. This version is shown in Sirdar Summer Linen DK shade 205.

• Yarn required: 8 to 14 balls of Sirdar Summer Linen DK (50g balls), depending on size
• Sizes covered: To fit bust 81/86 cm (32/34 in) through to 132/137 cm (52/54 in)
• Actual finished measurements: 92 cm (36¼ in) to 143 cm (56¼ in) across the full size range
• Full length: 55 cm (21¾ in) to 68 cm (26¾ in) depending on size

Sizing and Fit

One of the standout features of pattern 8138 is its inclusive size range, explicitly noted on the pattern cover as including larger sizes. Instructions are provided for six size brackets, from 81/86 cm to 132/137 cm bust (approximately UK sizes 10/12 through to 24/26), making this pattern accessible to a wide range of knitters. The actual garment measurements include positive ease, so the finished cardigans have a comfortable, relaxed fit rather than a close-fitting silhouette.

Craft and Techniques

Both cardigans are knitted garments, worked using standard hand knitting techniques appropriate for an intermediate-level knitter. Knitters with experience of basic shaping — including increases, decreases, and working button bands or front borders — will find this pattern well within their skill set. The adjustable sleeve length on the long-sleeved version also introduces a useful element of customisation, allowing knitters to tailor the garment to their personal preference or arm length.

Typical construction methods for cardigans of this style include:

• Working the back and front panels separately and seaming them together at the shoulders and sides
• Picking up and knitting front bands and neckbands to create neat, professional-looking edges
• Sleeve shaping using paired increases or decreases along the sleeve seam to