Cardigans in King Cole Gypsy - 4356 - Downloadable PDF

King Cole Gypsy Super Chunky Cardigans – Knitting Pattern 4356

This downloadable PDF from King Cole presents a collection of cardigans knitted in King Cole Gypsy Super Chunky yarn. Designed for intermediate knitters, the pattern covers a generous range of sizes from 71/76 cm to 112/117 cm (28/30 in to 44/46 in), making it suitable for a wide variety of body shapes. Each purchase of this King Cole pattern includes a donation to the Pink Ribbon Foundation, adding a charitable dimension to every project.

About King Cole Gypsy Super Chunky Yarn

The cardigans in this pattern are specifically designed to be worked in King Cole Gypsy, a super chunky weight yarn. Super chunky yarn knits up quickly on large needles, making it an ideal choice for cosy, substantial garments like cardigans. The bulky weight creates a warm, textured fabric that is well suited to outerwear and layering pieces. Knitters should always check their tension swatch before beginning, as achieving the correct tension is essential to producing a well-fitting garment.

Tension and Needles

The pattern specifies a tension of 10 stitches and 14 rows to 10 cm (4 in) measured over stocking stitch. This tension is achieved using 10 mm knitting needles, though knitters are encouraged to adjust needle size as necessary to match the stated tension. A Cable Needle (CN) is also referenced in the abbreviations, indicating that at least one of the cardigan designs incorporates cable work.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The pattern makes use of a variety of classic knitting stitches and techniques appropriate for an intermediate skill level. These include:

• Stocking Stitch – the primary fabric stitch, formed by alternating knit and purl rows, creating a smooth right side and a textured wrong side
• Garter Stitch (G-st) – worked by knitting every row, producing a ridged, reversible fabric often used for borders, hems, and edgings
• Cable Work – using a Cable Needle (CN), cables are created by crossing groups of stitches to produce twisted rope-like or plaited decorative panels
• Make One (M1) – a standard increase technique where a new stitch is picked up from the loop between two existing stitches, creating a nearly invisible increase
• Increases and Decreases – used for shaping the body, sleeves, and neckline of the cardigans
• Yarn Forward (yfwd) – a technique that brings the yarn to the front of the work, used for decorative effects or as part of a stitch pattern
• Knit (K) and Purl (P) – the two foundational knitting stitches from which all stitch patterns in the design are constructed

Pattern Construction and Shaping

The cardigans are constructed using standard flat knitting methods, with separate pieces worked for the back, fronts, and sleeves before being seamed together. Shaping is achieved through increases and decreases worked at specified intervals, following the pattern instructions for each size. The use of alternate rows and following rows in the shaping instructions ensures a smooth, professional finish to armholes, necklines, and sleeve heads.

Sizing

The pattern accommodates a broad range of sizes, spanning from 71/76 cm (28/30 in) up to 112/117 cm (44/46 in) chest measurement. Knitters are advised to select their size based on actual body measurements and to refer to the tension guidance carefully to ensure the finished garment matches the intended dimensions.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, this pattern is best suited to knitters who are comfortable with basic stitch patterns and have some experience with garment shaping. The inclusion of cable techniques and multi-piece garment construction means that complete beginners may find it challenging, though confident knitters looking to develop their skills will find it a rewarding project.

Materials Summary

• Yarn: King Cole Gypsy Super