Cardigan and Sweater in Stylecraft Special DK - 9644 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigan and Sweater in Stylecraft Special DK – Pattern 9644

Pattern 9644 from Stylecraft is a downloadable PDF featuring two classic knitwear designs: a raglan cardigan and a raglan sweater, both worked in Stylecraft Special DK yarn. Rated as easy knit / advanced beginner, this pattern is an excellent choice for knitters who have mastered the basics and are ready to tackle simple shaping and a textured stitch pattern. The pattern includes a generous size range, making it accessible to a wide range of body types.

Sizes and Fit

Both garments are designed to fit a wide range of bust measurements:

• To fit bust: 81–86 cm (32–34 in) through to 122–127 cm (48–50 in), across five sizes
• Actual chest measurement: 95 cm (37½ in) to 135 cm (53¼ in), offering a comfortable, relaxed fit
• Full length: 56 cm (22 in) to 67 cm (26½ in) depending on size
• Sleeve length: 45 cm (17¾ in) to 47 cm (18½ in)

The pattern instructs knitters to circle the size they wish to make before beginning, a helpful reminder when working from a multi-size PDF.

Design 1 – The Cardigan

The cardigan is a long-sleeved, button-front garment featuring a raglan armhole construction and a combination of ribbed welts and a distinctive textured body. It is worked in Stylecraft Special DK in Spearmint 1842, giving it a fresh, contemporary colour.

Construction and Shaping

The cardigan is knitted in separate pieces — back, fronts, and sleeves — which are then seamed together. The back begins with a cast-on of 103 to 151 stitches depending on size, worked on 3.25mm needles in k1, p1 rib for 6 cm (2½ in) to create a neat, elasticated welt. An increase row is then worked on the wrong side before changing to 4mm needles for the main body, bringing the stitch count up to 113–161 stitches. Raglan armhole shaping is then worked to create the characteristic diagonal seam lines running from the underarm to the neckline, a technique that produces a smooth, fitted shoulder without the need for traditional set-in sleeve shaping.

Techniques Used

• Raglan shaping – a classic construction method where sleeves and body are shaped simultaneously along diagonal decrease lines
• M1 increases – used in the transition row between the rib welt and the box stitch body
• Stitch holders – used to hold stitches during construction, particularly around the neckline
• Button band knitting – the cardigan requires 7 to 9 buttons depending on size, with corresponding buttonhole and button bands

Stitches Used

• K1, P1 Rib – worked over the welts and cuffs for stretch and structure
• Box Stitch – the main body stitch pattern, formed over a 4-row repeat: knit rows alternate with a p2, k1, p2 / k2, p1, k2 arrangement to create a subtle, textured grid effect. This stitch is straightforward to work but adds visual interest and a slightly structured fabric.
• Stocking stitch – used in transition rows and certain shaping sections

Design 2 – The Sweater

The sweater shares the same silhouette, construction method, and stitch patterns as the cardigan but is worked as a pullover — knitted in the round or seamed, with no button opening. It is shown in Stylecraft Special DK in Storm Blue 1722, offering a bold,