Cardigans in Stylecraft ReCreate DK - 10057 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigans in Stylecraft ReCreate DK – Pattern 10057: Two Easy Eyelet Cardigan Designs

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Stylecraft presents two classic cardigan designs — a Long Cardigan and a Short Cardigan — both worked in Stylecraft ReCreate DK yarn. Rated as easy difficulty, the pattern is well suited to confident beginners and those looking to build their garment-knitting skills. Both designs incorporate a simple eyelet detail, adding a delicate decorative touch without requiring complex lace techniques. The pattern generously includes a wide range of sizes, covering bust measurements from 81/86 cm to 122/127 cm (32/34 in to 48/50 in), making it accessible to a broad range of knitters.

About Stylecraft ReCreate DK

Both cardigans are designed specifically for Stylecraft ReCreate DK, a double knit weight yarn. ReCreate is part of Stylecraft's commitment to more sustainable crafting, making it a meaningful choice for eco-conscious knitters. The DK weight ensures a smooth, manageable fabric that works up relatively quickly and produces a flattering drape suitable for everyday wearable garments.

Long Cardigan

The Long Cardigan is the more substantial of the two designs, offering a relaxed, longer-line silhouette. Finished lengths range from approximately 60.5 cm to 71.5 cm (23¾ in to 28 in) depending on the size knitted, with actual bust measurements spanning 95 cm to 135 cm (37½ in to 53¼ in).

Construction and Techniques

The back of the Long Cardigan is worked flat from the bottom up. Construction begins with a neat k1, p1 ribbed welt worked on 3¼ mm needles, which provides a tidy, elasticated lower edge. The rib is worked for approximately 5 cm (2 in) before a decrease row is worked on the wrong side to shape the fabric neatly into the main body. This is a classic and well-proven method for creating a fitted yet comfortable garment body.

• Ribbing: K1, p1 rib forms the welts and cuffs, providing stretch and structure at the edges
• Eyelet detail: Simple yarn-over eyelets are incorporated as a decorative feature, suitable for beginners learning basic lace-style techniques
• Stripe and colour work: The pattern includes a colour note advising knitters to carry unused yarn up the side of the work between stripes to minimise yarn ends and simplify finishing
• Shaping: Decrease rows are used to transition from the ribbed welt into the main body, creating a subtle waist shaping effect

Needles

• 3¼ mm needles are used for the ribbed sections
• A larger needle size would typically be used for the main body in DK weight patterns of this type

Short Cardigan

The Short Cardigan offers a cropped, more contemporary alternative within the same pattern booklet. Finished lengths range from approximately 45 cm to 58.5 cm (17¾ in to 23 in) across the size range, making it a versatile layering piece. Like the Long Cardigan, it is worked in Stylecraft ReCreate DK and shares the same easy eyelet design aesthetic.

Construction and Techniques

The Short Cardigan follows a similar construction approach to its longer counterpart, using flat knitting worked in pieces that are seamed together. The shorter length makes this an excellent project for knitters who want a quicker finish or who prefer a modern, cropped silhouette.

• Eyelet pattern: The same simple eyelet motif featured in the Long Cardigan appears here, giving both designs a cohesive look
• Ribbing: K1, p1 rib is used at the lower edges and cuffs for a neat, stretchy finish
• Stripe and colour options: As with the Long Cardigan, the pattern accommodates stripe sequences with guidance on carrying yarn up the side to reduce sewing in of