Top & Cardigan in King Cole DK - 4836 - Downloadable PDF

Top & Cardigan in King Cole DK - Pattern 4836

What is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern from King Cole provides instructions for creating a coordinated set consisting of both a top and a cardigan. The designs feature raglan sleeves and are suitable for a range of sizes from 81 to 107 cm (32 to 42 inches) in chest measurement, making them versatile pieces for various body types. Both garments are worked in King Cole DK yarn, offering a lightweight yet structured finished fabric ideal for layering or wearing as standalone pieces.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques. The raglan sleeve construction is a key feature, requiring careful shaping through strategic increases and decreases to create the distinctive diagonal seams that run from the underarm to the neckline. Tension work is critical to the success of this pattern, with knitters required to achieve 26 stitches and 28 rows over a 10 cm (4 inch) square on 4mm needles before beginning. The pattern emphasizes the importance of checking tension before commencing the garment, as adjustments to needle size may be necessary if tension differs from the stated gauge. Stitch manipulation and shaping techniques are incorporated throughout to achieve proper fit and garment structure.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes a combination of classic knitting stitches to create texture and structure:

• Stocking stitch (st-st) — the primary stitch used, with knit stitches on the right side and purl stitches on the wrong side, creating a smooth, classic fabric
• Reversed stocking stitch (rev st-st) — featuring purl stitches on the right side and knit stitches on the wrong side for textural variation
• Garter stitch (gst) — created by knitting every row, often used for borders or edgings to provide structure and prevent curling
• Pattern stitches — the design incorporates patterned sections worked through combinations of knit and purl stitches

Additional stitch techniques include increases, decreases, slipped stitches, and pass slipped stitch over (psso) methods for shaping and creating decorative details.

Materials Required

This pattern is designed to be worked in King Cole DK (double knit) yarn, a medium-weight yarn that provides excellent stitch definition and drape. The recommended needle size is 4mm for achieving the specified tension. The DK weight yarn creates a fabric with good structure while remaining lightweight enough for comfortable wear in various seasons. Knitters should ensure they have the appropriate quantity of yarn in their chosen color and have 4mm needles available, along with standard finishing supplies such as a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends.

Pattern Details

This is a downloadable PDF pattern from King Cole, making it immediately accessible for digital reference while knitting. The pattern includes comprehensive abbreviations and instructions to guide knitters through each stage of construction. As part of King Cole's charitable initiative, a donation is made to the Pink Ribbon Foundation for every pattern purchased, allowing crafters to contribute to a worthy cause while enjoying their creative hobby.