Sweater & Gilet in King Cole Aran - 4964 - Downloadable PDF

King Cole Aran Pattern 4964 – Knitted Sweater & Gilet Pattern Summary

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from King Cole (pattern number 4964) provides instructions for two classic knitwear designs: a sweater (pullover jumper) and a gilet (sleeveless vest). Both garments are worked in King Cole Aran weight yarn, making them ideal for cooler seasons. The pattern is rated advanced in difficulty, making it best suited to experienced knitters who are comfortable with cable techniques and multi-stitch pattern repeats.

Sizes and Fit

Both the sweater and the gilet are designed to fit a range of chest sizes, from 81 cm to 117 cm (32 in to 46 in), offering generous size inclusivity across the pattern. This wide size range makes the designs suitable for a variety of body types, and knitters are encouraged to select the size closest to their actual chest measurement before casting on.

Yarn and Materials

Both garments are knitted using King Cole Aran yarn. Aran weight yarn is a medium-to-heavy weight yarn, sitting between DK and chunky on the yarn weight spectrum. It is a popular choice for textured knitting projects because its thickness allows cable and stitch patterns to stand out clearly and creates a warm, substantial fabric ideal for outerwear and transitional-season garments.

• Yarn: King Cole Aran weight yarn
• Needles: 5mm knitting needles are specified as the primary needle size for achieving the correct tension
• Cable needle: A cable needle is required for working the cable stitch patterns featured throughout both designs

Tension

The pattern specifies a tension of 17 stitches and 26 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over pattern on 5mm needles. Achieving the correct tension is essential before beginning either garment, and knitters are advised to knit a tension square first. If fewer stitches or rows are produced per 10 cm than stated, finer needles should be used; if more stitches or rows appear, larger needles are recommended. Correct tension ensures the finished garment matches the intended measurements and fit.

Stitches and Techniques Used

Both the sweater and the gilet feature a combination of classic knitting stitches and more advanced textured techniques. The use of cable patterns gives both designs their distinctive, traditional Aran character.

Core Stitches

• Knit (K) – the foundational stitch used throughout both garments
• Purl (P) – used in combination with knit stitches to create ribbing, reverse stocking stitch backgrounds, and textured panels
• Yarn forward (yfwd) – a technique used to create a new stitch or decorative eyelet effect
• Yarn round needle (yrn) – similar to yarn forward, used in specific stitch contexts to create increases or lace-like details

Shaping Techniques

• Increase (inc) – used to shape the garment pieces, adding stitches where needed
• Decrease (dec) – used for armhole shaping, neckline shaping, and other fitted sections
• Slip (sl) – stitches are slipped as part of certain pattern sequences and cable manoeuvres
• Knit/purl together (tog) – a standard decrease method used throughout

Cable Techniques

• C5 (Cable 5) – a special abbreviation defined in the pattern, this cable is worked by slipping the next 2 stitches onto a cable needle and placing them at the back of the work before knitting the following stitches, then working the held stitches. This creates the twisted rope-like cable columns that are characteristic of traditional Aran knitwear.
• Cable needles are used to hold stitches temporarily while the crossing is worked, a fundamental technique in Aran-style knitting

The Sweater

The sweater is a