Cardigans in Stylecraft Recreate Chunky - 9946 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigans in Stylecraft ReCreate Chunky – Pattern 9946: Two Knitted Cardigan Designs

Pattern 9946 from Stylecraft is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern offering two distinct cardigan designs worked in Stylecraft ReCreate Chunky yarn. Suitable for intermediate knitters, this pattern covers a generous size range — from a 32/34 inch to a 48/50 inch bust/chest (81–86 cm up to 122–127 cm) — making it an inclusive choice for a wide variety of body types. The actual finished measurements range from 114 cm (45 in) to 157 cm (61¾ in) in circumference, reflecting a relaxed, comfortable fit typical of chunky-weight knitwear.

Garment Overview and Sizing

Both cardigans are classic wardrobe staples rendered in a satisfying chunky weight that knits up quickly and produces a cosy, substantial fabric. The full garment length ranges from 66 cm (26 in) to 77 cm (30¼ in) depending on size, and sleeve lengths are also graded across the size range, running from approximately 41 cm to 49 cm. The inclusion of larger sizes up to 48/50 inches is highlighted prominently in the pattern, reflecting a commitment to size inclusivity.

Design One: V Neck Cardigan

The first design is a V Neck Cardigan featuring a striking decorative Pattern Panel worked over 23 stitches. This panel is written out separately within the PDF and is integrated into the garment pieces at specific points in the instructions, adding a focal point of textural and lace-like interest to an otherwise classic silhouette.

The Pattern Panel – Techniques and Stitches

The Pattern Panel is the standout technical feature of this cardigan and introduces a combination of lace and twisted stitch techniques that give the fabric an elegant, structured appearance. Knitters working this panel will use the following stitches and methods:

• yfwd (yarn forward) – a yarn-over technique used to create a decorative eyelet or increase
• ssk (slip, slip, knit) – a left-leaning decrease commonly used in lace knitting to shape and create directional lines
• k2tog (knit two together) – a right-leaning decrease paired with yarn-overs to form the lace motif
• yfrn (yarn forward and round needle) – a yarn-over variation used when moving between purl and knit stitches
• yon (yarn over needle) – another yarn-over variant used in specific stitch transitions within the panel
• Knit and purl stitches in combination, creating a fabric with both smooth and textured sections
• Right-side and wrong-side rows are both written out in full, making the panel accessible to intermediate knitters who are still building confidence with lace

The panel rows alternate between right-side rows featuring the lace decreases and yarn-overs, and wrong-side rows that consolidate the pattern with knit and purl sequences — for example, a wrong-side row working p7, k1, p1, k5, p1, k1, p7 to maintain the panel's structure. This approach ensures that the lace motif is clearly defined and the fabric lies flat and even.

Construction and Shaping

As is standard for a set-in or drop-shoulder style cardigan at chunky weight, the garment is likely worked in separate pieces — fronts, back, and sleeves — and then seamed together. The V-neck shaping requires careful attention to front neck decreases, which is one of the reasons this pattern is rated intermediate rather than beginner. The Pattern Panel placement is coordinated with the garment construction instructions so knitters can position the decorative element correctly on the fronts or body.

Design Two: Second Cardigan Design

The pattern includes a second cardigan design, offering knitters variety within a single purchase. While the PDF excerpt focuses primarily on the V Neck Cardigan's Pattern Panel detail, both designs share