¾ and Short Sleeved Cardigans in Sirdar Crofter DK - 7009 - Downloadable PDF

¾ and Short Sleeved Cardigans in Sirdar Crofter DK

Project Overview

This downloadable knitting pattern from Sirdar offers two versatile cardigan designs in a single PDF: a ¾ sleeved cardigan and a short sleeved cardigan. Both styles are crafted using Sirdar Crofter DK yarn, a double knit weight that provides excellent stitch definition and drape. The pattern is available in six size options, ranging from 61/66cm (24/26 inches) chest measurement through to 112/117cm (44/46 inches), making these designs suitable for a wide range of body sizes.

¾ Sleeved Cardigan Design

The ¾ sleeved cardigan features three-quarter length sleeves that extend approximately 22cm to 32cm (8¾ to 12½ inches) depending on size. This sleeve length provides a classic, elegant look that works well for layering or as a standalone piece. The cardigan is designed with an approximate full length ranging from 36cm to 60cm (14 to 23¾ inches) across the size range, with actual finished bust measurements from 70cm to 121cm (27½ to 47¾ inches). This style is knitted in Sirdar Crofter DK shade 079, requiring between 3 to 7 fifty-gram balls depending on the finished size selected.

Short Sleeved Cardigan Design

The short sleeved cardigan offers a lighter, more seasonal alternative with sleeves measuring approximately 4cm (1½ inches) in length across all sizes. This minimal sleeve length makes it ideal for warm weather wear or as a layering piece over longer-sleeved garments. The short sleeved version shares the same body length measurements as the ¾ sleeved option and is worked in Sirdar Crofter DK shade 080, requiring 3 to 6 fifty-gram balls depending on size.

Yarn and Materials

Both cardigans are designed specifically for Sirdar Crofter DK, a double knit weight yarn that combines durability with refined stitch clarity. The pattern indicates that the yarn is suitable for average requirements when specified tension is maintained. The PDF notes that these designs are also compatible with alternative DK weight yarns, including Country Style DK, Wash 'n' Wear Double Crepe DK, Click DK, Montana DK, Simply Recycled DK, Ella DK, Summer Stripes DK, Americana DK, Soukie DK, Cotton DK, and Calico DK, though yarn amounts may vary when substituting different fiber types.

Sizing and Measurements

• Size 1: To fit 61/66cm (24/26 inches) chest; actual measurement 70cm (27½ inches); full length approximately 36cm (14 inches)
• Size 2: To fit 71/76cm (28/30 inches) chest; actual measurement 81cm (32 inches); full length approximately 45cm (17¾ inches)
• Size 3: To fit 81/86cm (32/34 inches) chest; actual measurement 90cm (35½ inches); full length approximately 54cm (21¼ inches)
• Size 4: To fit 91/97cm (36/38 inches) chest; actual measurement 102cm (40 inches); full length approximately 56cm (22 inches)
• Size 5: To fit 102/107cm (40/42 inches) chest; actual measurement 110cm (43¼ inches); full length approximately 59cm (23¼ inches)
• Size 6: To fit 112/117cm (44/46 inches) chest; actual measurement 121cm (47¾ inches); full length approximately 60cm (23¾ inches)

Knitting Techniques and Construction

These cardigan patterns employ standard knitting construction methods appropriate for DK weight yarn. The designs feature shaped sleeves that taper to the armhole, with the ¾ length option requiring more complex shaping calculations to achieve the graduated sleeve lengths across the size range. The short sleeved version simplifies construction by using minimal sleeve caps, making it an accessible project for intermediate knitters. Both styles incorporate cardigan front bands and button bands, which are typically worked in a contrasting or complementary stitch pattern to frame the garment and provide structure for button placement.

Yarn Weight and Needle Considerations