Sweater and Tunic in Stylecraft Life Changes - 9542 - Downloadable PDF

Stylecraft Life Changes DK Sweater and Tunic – Pattern 9542 Summary

Pattern 9542 from Stylecraft is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern featuring two distinct designs: a classic sweater and a longer tunic, both worked in Life Changes DK yarn. The pattern is rated intermediate in difficulty and is 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 it an inclusive design that caters to a broad spectrum of knitters. Both garments share the same yarn and construction approach but differ in finished length and yarn quantity required.

Designs Included

Design 1: The Sweater

The sweater is a comfortable, wearable everyday knit with a generous actual bust measurement ranging from 110 cm (43¼ in) to 151 cm (59½ in) across the five sizes, offering a relaxed, easy fit. The full length, measured from the back of the neck, runs from 78 cm (30¾ in) to 89 cm (35 in) depending on size, and the sleeve length measures between 44 cm (17¼ in) and 46 cm (18 in). A notable design feature is the inclusion of patch pockets, which are knitted as separate pocket linings before being incorporated into the front of the garment — a classic construction technique that adds both practicality and a polished finish.

The sweater requires 6 to 8 balls of Stylecraft Life Changes DK in 100g balls, depending on size. The colourway shown in the pattern is Corals 2702.

Design 2: The Tunic

The tunic follows a similar construction to the sweater but is worked to a longer length, creating a more relaxed, fashion-forward silhouette that can be worn over leggings or slim trousers. Due to the additional length, the tunic requires slightly fewer yarn balls at the smaller sizes but scales up similarly, needing 5 to 7 balls of Stylecraft Life Changes DK in 100g balls. Like the sweater, it is worked in the same Corals 2702 colourway as shown.

Yarn and Materials

Both designs are knitted in Stylecraft Life Changes DK, a double knitting weight yarn sold in 100g balls. Life Changes DK is a yarn known for its smooth, consistent texture and its suitability for garment knitting, producing excellent stitch definition that showcases both ribbing and stocking stitch beautifully. The colourway featured in this pattern is Corals 2702, a warm, wearable tone ideal for transitional and everyday knitwear.

• Yarn: Stylecraft Life Changes DK, 100g balls
• Colourway shown: Corals 2702
• Sweater yarn requirement: 6, 7, 7, 8, or 8 balls by size
• Tunic yarn requirement: 5, 5, 6, 6, or 7 balls by size
• Needles: 3¼ mm needles (for ribbed welts and cuffs) and 4 mm needles (for main body and sleeves in stocking stitch)

Techniques and Construction

Both garments are constructed using traditional flat knitting techniques, worked in separate pieces — front, back, and sleeves — which are then seamed together. This classic construction method gives the finished garments excellent structure and is well suited to intermediate knitters looking to build their skills in shaping and finishing.

Cast-On Method

The pattern specifies the thumb method cast-on throughout, including for the main body pieces and the pocket linings. The thumb method produces a firm, elastic edge that works particularly well at the lower edges of garments and at the start of pocket linings.

Stitches Used