Cardigan and Waistcoat in Sirdar Cotton DK - 7913 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigan and Waistcoat in Sirdar Cotton DK – Pattern 7913

Pattern 7913 from Sirdar is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern offering two classic wardrobe staples in one package: a long-sleeved cardigan and a sleeveless waistcoat. Both designs are worked in Sirdar Cotton DK, making them ideal warm-weather or year-round layering pieces. The pattern is rated intermediate in difficulty and includes an impressive size range, from a 32/34 inch bust right up to a 52/54 inch bust, making it genuinely inclusive for a wide range of body types.

Designs Included

The Cardigan

The cardigan is a timeless, open-fronted knitted layer designed to be worn over a variety of outfits. With a full length of approximately 60–73 cm (23¾–28¾ inches) measured from the back of the neck depending on size, it provides comfortable coverage without being overly long. The actual bust measurement ranges from 93 cm (36¾ in) to 144 cm (56¾ in) across the six sizes, giving a relaxed, wearable ease over the stated bust measurements.

The sleeves are a key feature of the cardigan, with lengths ranging from 44–46 cm (17¼–18 inches) and noted as adjustable, allowing knitters to personalise the fit to their arm length. This is a particularly useful detail for intermediate knitters who want to tailor the garment more precisely.

• Sizes: 81/86 cm through to 132/137 cm bust (32/34 in to 52/54 in)
• Actual measurement: 93–144 cm (36¾–56¾ in)
• Full length: approximately 60–73 cm (23¾–28¾ in)
• Sleeve length: 44–46 cm (17¼–18 in), adjustable
• Yarn required: 6–10 x 100g balls of Sirdar Cotton DK shade 539

The Waistcoat

The waistcoat is a sleeveless version that works beautifully as a standalone warm-weather top or as an additional layer over a shirt or blouse. It shares the same size range and overall silhouette as the cardigan but requires fewer materials due to the absence of sleeves, making it a slightly quicker knit and a great project for those who want a versatile, lighter garment.

• Sizes: 81/86 cm through to 132/137 cm bust (32/34 in to 52/54 in)
• Yarn required: 4–8 x 100g balls of Sirdar Cotton DK shade 538

Techniques and Stitches

Both the cardigan and waistcoat are knitting patterns worked flat on straight needles, which is the standard construction method for garments of this style. As intermediate level projects, they are suitable for knitters who are comfortable with basic shaping techniques such as increasing and decreasing, as well as working neat edges and finishing seams professionally.

Classic DK-weight knitting techniques are employed throughout, including:

• Stocking stitch – the smooth, classic fabric commonly used for the main body and sleeves of garments like these
• Rib stitch – typically used for welts, cuffs, and neckbands to provide stretch and a neat, professional finish
• Shaping – armhole, sleeve cap, and neckline shaping are standard features of fitted garments at this level
• Seaming – the pieces are knitted separately and then joined, requiring mattress stitch or backstitch finishing skills

The adjustable sleeve length noted in the pattern is a practical design choice that encourages knitters to measure and adapt as they go, a hallmark of intermediate-level pattern work.

Materials and Yarn

Both designs are written specifically for Sirdar Cotton DK, a smooth, breathable double knitting weight yarn that is well-suited to structured garments.