Sweaters in King Cole Luxury Merino DK - 5245 - Downloadable PDF

Sweaters in King Cole Luxury Merino DK – Pattern 5245: Raglan Sleeve Knitting Pattern Summary

What Is Being Made

This downloadable PDF pattern from King Cole (pattern number 5245) provides instructions for knitting raglan sleeve sweaters. The designs are sized to fit chest measurements of 81–107 cm (32–42 inches), making them suitable for a broad range of adult sizes. The raglan sleeve construction is a classic and practical approach to knitwear design, where the sleeve extends in one diagonal line all the way to the neckline, eliminating the traditional shoulder seam and creating a smooth, comfortable fit across the upper body.

Techniques Used

As an intermediate-level knitting pattern, this design incorporates several key construction and shaping techniques that go beyond basic beginner knitting:

• Raglan sleeve shaping – the defining construction method of this pattern, requiring regular decreases along four raglan seam lines to shape the yoke of the garment
• Increasing and decreasing – used throughout to shape the sleeves and body panels, with abbreviations for both inc (increase) and dec (decrease) referenced in the pattern
• Tension/gauge swatching – the pattern emphasises the importance of knitting a tension square before beginning, adjusting needle size as needed to achieve the correct gauge
• Seaming and finishing – joining raglan seams and side seams to complete the garment
• Slipping stitches – referenced via the abbreviation sl and psso (pass slipped stitch over), a technique commonly used in decorative or functional decreasing

Stitches Used

The pattern makes use of several fundamental and versatile knitting stitches:

• Stocking stitch (st-st) – the primary fabric stitch, worked with the right side knit and wrong side purled, creating the smooth, classic jersey surface typical of sweaters
• Reversed stocking stitch (rev st-st) – the opposite of standard stocking stitch, with the purl side used as the right side, often employed as a textural contrast detail
• Garter stitch (gst) – every row knitted, producing a ridged, stretchy fabric frequently used for borders, hems, and cuffs
• Knit (K) and Purl (P) – the two foundational stitches that underpin all of the above fabric constructions

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The pattern is specifically designed to be knitted in King Cole Luxury Merino DK yarn, a double knit (DK) weight yarn. Merino wool is widely appreciated in knitwear for its exceptional softness against the skin, natural elasticity, and temperature-regulating properties, making it an excellent choice for sweaters intended for everyday wear. The Luxury designation suggests a premium quality fibre with a refined finish.

The recommended needle size is 4mm, which is standard for DK weight yarn. The stated tension is 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over stocking stitch on 4mm needles. Knitters are advised to adjust needle size up or down if their personal tension does not match this gauge, as achieving the correct tension is essential for the finished garment to match the intended measurements.

Sizing and Fit

The pattern covers a chest size range of 81 to 107 cm (32 to 42 inches), offering multiple size options within a single pattern to accommodate different body measurements. The raglan construction naturally lends itself to a relaxed and flexible fit, making it a popular choice for both casual and smart-casual knitwear.

Additional Notes

This pattern is available as a downloadable PDF, allowing instant access after purchase. King Cole also notes that for every pattern purchased, a donation is made to the Pink Ribbon Foundation, meaning your purchase supports a charitable cause alongside your crafting project.