Cardigans in Stylecraft Knit Me Crochet Me - 10043 - Downloadable PDF

Wrap Cardigans in Stylecraft Knit Me Crochet Me – Pattern 10043

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Stylecraft (pattern number 10043) presents two wrap cardigan designs — a Long Cardigan and a Short Cardigan — both worked in Double Knitting weight yarn using the Stylecraft Knit Me Crochet Me yarn range. The pattern is rated intermediate in difficulty and is notable for including an impressively wide range of sizes, making it accessible to a broad range of knitters.

Sizes and Fit

Both cardigans are available in six sizes, designed to fit bust measurements from 81/86 cm (32/34 in) through to 132/137 cm (52/54 in). The actual finished measurements range from 88 cm (34¾ in) to 139 cm (54¾ in), providing a comfortable, relaxed fit appropriate for a wrap-style garment. The inclusion of larger sizes up to 52/54 inches makes this pattern particularly inclusive.

Long Cardigan Dimensions

• Full length: 60–73 cm (23¾–28¾ in) depending on size
• Sleeve length: 46–48 cm (18–19 in)

Short Cardigan Dimensions

• Full length: 48–61 cm (19–24 in) depending on size
• Sleeve length: 46–48 cm (18–19 in)

Design Overview

Both designs share the elegant wrap cardigan silhouette — a timeless, flattering style that crosses at the front and is typically secured with a tie or belt. This style is well-suited to a range of occasions, from casual everyday wear to smarter settings. The Long Cardigan offers a more dramatic, flowing look, while the Short Cardigan provides a cropped, contemporary alternative. Both versions feature set-in or structured sleeves and a consistent construction approach throughout.

Techniques and Construction

The pattern is worked in separate pieces — including left front, right front, back, and sleeves — which are then seamed together. This classic construction method gives knitters full control over each section and is well-suited to intermediate-level knitters comfortable with shaping and finishing.

Construction begins with a ribbed hem and cuff section, worked using a twisted rib stitch. This involves knitting and purling through the back loop, which creates a denser, more elastic rib than standard ribbing — ideal for providing structure and a neat, professional finish at the edges of a wrap garment.

Key Techniques Used

• Twisted k1, p1 rib: Formed by alternating k1tbl (knit one through the back loop) and p1tbl (purl one through the back loop), this technique produces a firm, attractive ribbing with excellent recovery and elasticity.
• Shaping with decreases: The pattern includes structured decrease rows, such as rib2tog worked at specific intervals, to shape the garment from the ribbed border into the main body. This creates a tailored, fitted transition between the rib and the body fabric.
• Wrap cardigan front construction: The left and right fronts are worked separately with careful attention to shaping, ensuring the wrap overlap sits correctly when the garment is worn.
• Seaming and finishing: As a multi-piece pattern, knitters will need to join sections neatly, requiring skills such as mattress stitch or similar seaming techniques.

Stitches Used

• Twisted knit stitch (k1tbl): Knitting through the back loop to create a twisted column of stitches
• Twisted purl stitch (p1tbl): Purling through the back loop for the reverse side of the twisted rib
• Rib2tog: A decrease stitch worked within the rib pattern