Tunic in Hayfield Bonus Aran - 10608 - Downloadable PDF

Tunic in Hayfield Bonus Aran

What is Being Made

This is a knitted tunic garment designed in Hayfield Bonus Aran yarn. The tunic is available in six sizes ranging from small (81/86 cm chest) to triple extra large (132/137 cm chest), with finished widths from 42 inches to 62½ inches and full lengths from 28¾ inches to 32¾ inches. The design offers versatile sizing to accommodate a wide range of body measurements.

Techniques and Stitches Used

This intermediate-level knitting pattern employs several classic techniques to create visual interest and texture. The tunic features cable patterns as a primary design element, with specific attention to both centre diamond cable patterns and side edge border cable patterns. These techniques require the use of a cable needle to manipulate stitches and create the characteristic twisted, rope-like appearance of cables.

The pattern also incorporates slip stitch techniques, which are used strategically throughout the design, particularly in the cable pattern sections. Slip stitches allow for smooth transitions and refined edge finishing. The combination of these techniques creates a sophisticated, textured fabric suitable for a tunic-weight garment.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This pattern is designed specifically for Hayfield Bonus Aran yarn in shade 561 Moon. The yarn weight is aran, a medium-weight yarn ideal for creating garments with good drape and structure. Yarn quantities vary by size: smaller sizes (S and M) require 4 balls of 100g each, medium sizes (L and XL) require 5 balls, and larger sizes (XXL and XXXL) require 6 balls. Each ball contains 100 grams of yarn.

Needles and Notions

The pattern requires two pairs of knitting needles in different sizes to achieve proper tension and fabric characteristics. You will need 5mm (UK size 6 / USA size 8) knitting needles for the main fabric and 4mm (UK size 8 / USA size 6) knitting needles for ribbed sections or edgings. Additional notions required include stitch holders for managing active stitches during construction and a cable needle for executing the cable stitch patterns throughout the design.

Tension and Gauge

Achieving the correct tension is essential for this pattern. The specified tension is 13 stitches over 10 cm (4 inches) and 24 rows over 10 cm (4 inches) when working on 5mm needles. For the centre diamond and slip cable pattern sections, the gauge is 7 stitches over 4 cm (approximately 17.5 stitches per 10 cm). The side edge border cable pattern maintains the standard tension of 13 stitches over 10 cm. Checking and adjusting your tension before beginning ensures that your finished tunic will match the intended measurements.

Pattern Format

This pattern is provided as a downloadable PDF document, making it convenient to access, print, and reference while working on your project. The PDF format allows you to view detailed piece measurements and size-specific instructions for all six available sizes.