Cardigans in Sirdar Calico DK- 2289 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigans in Sirdar Calico DK - Pattern Overview

This downloadable knitting pattern from Sirdar offers two distinct cardigan designs crafted in Sirdar Calico DK yarn. The pattern provides comprehensive sizing options and detailed instructions for creating both a classic long cardigan and a modern cropped cardigan silhouette, making it suitable for a range of body measurements and style preferences.

Long Cardigan Design

The long cardigan is designed to fit chest and bust measurements ranging from 61/66cm (24/26 inches) through to 112/117cm (44/46 inches), with actual garment measurements between 70cm and 120cm. This style features an extended full length that varies by size, from 44cm (17¼ inches) in the smallest size to 65cm (25½ inches) in the largest size. Long sleeves are included, measuring between 33cm and 48cm depending on the size selected. This cardigan requires 4 to 10 balls of Sirdar Calico DK yarn in shade 722 (depending on size) and is fastened with 5 buttons.

Cropped Cardigan Design

The cropped cardigan offers a contemporary shorter length, with full length measurements ranging from 25cm (9¾ inches) to 40cm (15¾ inches). This style accommodates the same chest and bust size range as the long version. Short sleeves are featured, measuring just 2cm to 4cm in length across the size range. The cropped cardigan requires fewer materials, needing 2 to 6 balls of Sirdar Calico DK yarn in shade 730 (depending on size) and is secured with 3 buttons.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

These cardigans are constructed using fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for DK weight yarn. The patterns employ standard knitting stitches and shaping methods to create fitted garments with proper bust shaping and sleeve cap construction. Button bands are incorporated into both designs for a professional finish, with buttonholes positioned to accommodate the specified button quantities.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The primary yarn specified is Sirdar Calico DK, a DK weight yarn supplied in 50g balls. The long cardigan uses shade 722, while the cropped cardigan uses shade 730. The pattern notes that these designs are also suitable for alternative DK weight yarns including Juicy DK, Luxury Soft Cotton DK, and Flirt DK, provided that the specified tension is maintained.

Knitting needles required include:

• 1 pair of 4mm needles (UK size 8 / USA size 6) - for main fabric
• 1 pair of 3¼mm needles (UK size 10 / USA size 3) - for ribbing and edgings

Additional notions include 5 buttons for the long cardigan or 3 buttons for the cropped cardigan version.

Tension and Fit

The pattern is designed to be worked at a tension of 22 stitches (the full tension specification is provided in the complete pattern documentation). Achieving the correct tension is essential for obtaining the intended garment measurements and ensuring proper fit across the size range offered.

Size Range and Customization

With six distinct size options accommodating measurements from 24/26 inches to 44/46 inches, these patterns provide flexibility for various body types. The inclusion of both long and cropped length options allows knitters to choose the style that best suits their preferences, and the compatibility with multiple DK weight yarns enables color and fiber content customization while maintaining pattern integrity.