Cardigan with 3/4 Sleeves in Sirdar No.1 - 8129 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigan with 3/4 Sleeves in Sirdar No.1 – Pattern 8129

This knitting pattern (Sirdar pattern number 8129) provides instructions for a classic cardigan with three-quarter length sleeves, designed to be knitted in Sirdar No.1 DK weight yarn. The pattern is available as a downloadable PDF and is rated as intermediate in difficulty, making it an excellent project for knitters who are comfortable with the basics and ready to develop their garment-making skills further.

What Is Being Made

The finished garment is a women's cardigan featuring three-quarter length sleeves, giving it a versatile, elegant look suitable for layering across seasons. The cardigan is worked in pieces — typically a back, two fronts, and sleeves — and then seamed together. The design includes a neat, finished neckline and front bands, which are worked using a circular needle to achieve a clean, professional edge.

The pattern generously includes larger sizes, covering a wide range of bust measurements from 81/86 cm (32/34 in) through to 132/137 cm (52/54 in), making it an inclusive design suitable for a broad range of body types. The actual finished measurements range from 92 cm (36¼ in) to 143 cm (56¼ in) across the chest, incorporating positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Sizing and Measurements

• Sizes available: 81/86, 91/97, 102/107, 112/117, 122/127, and 132/137 cm bust (32/34 to 52/54 in)
• Actual chest measurement: 92 – 143 cm (36¼ – 56¼ in)
• Full length: 50 – 63 cm (19¾ – 24¾ in), varying by size
• Sleeve length: 31 – 32 cm (12 – 12½ in), reflecting the three-quarter sleeve style

Techniques Used

As an intermediate-level knitting pattern, this cardigan introduces and reinforces a range of practical garment construction techniques. Knitters will work through shaping methods including increasing and decreasing to form the armholes, sleeve caps, and neckline. The use of a circular needle for the front bands and neckband is a key technique employed in this pattern, allowing stitches to be picked up and worked smoothly around the garment opening without visible seams or joins.

Finishing techniques such as seaming the garment pieces together — joining the back to the fronts at the shoulders and sides, and setting in the sleeves — are an important part of completing this project. Neat seaming is essential to achieving a well-fitted, professional-looking cardigan.

Stitches Used

The pattern makes use of classic knitting stitches typical of DK-weight garment patterns:

• Stocking stitch (stockinette stitch) – the primary stitch used for the main body and sleeves, creating a smooth, flat fabric on the right side
• Rib stitch – commonly used for the welts, cuffs, and front bands to add elasticity and a tidy, structured edge

These foundational stitches combine to create a garment that is both classic in appearance and satisfying to knit, with enough variation in technique to keep intermediate knitters engaged throughout the project.

Materials Required

The pattern is designed specifically for Sirdar No.1 DK yarn in shade 220 (F047). The quantity required ranges from 5 to 8 x 100g balls depending on the size being knitted. Sirdar No.1 is a smooth, high-quality DK weight yarn that produces excellent stitch definition, ideal for showcasing the clean lines of this cardigan design.

The pattern also notes compatibility with a wide range of other Sirdar DK weight yarns, including Country Style DK, Crofter DK, Soukie DK, Beachcomber DK, Harrap Tweed DK, Amalfi DK,