Cardigan in Sirdar Summer Linen DK - 8260 - Downloadable PDF

Sirdar Summer Linen DK Cardigan – Pattern 8260: Detailed Summary

This knitting pattern (Sirdar 8260) provides instructions for a women's cardigan knitted in Sirdar Summer Linen DK, a lightweight double knit yarn perfectly suited to relaxed warm-weather layering. The design is available as a downloadable PDF, making it instantly accessible for knitters eager to cast on right away. Rated as an intermediate difficulty project, this cardigan is ideal for knitters who are comfortable with standard shaping techniques and are ready to move beyond beginner-level construction.

What Is Being Made

The pattern produces a women's short-sleeved cardigan with a classic, wearable silhouette. It is designed to be a versatile layering piece, suitable for spring and summer wear thanks to the breathable, linen-blend yarn. The cardigan features a neat, structured finish that works equally well dressed up or worn casually.

Sizing and Fit

One of the standout features of this pattern is its inclusive size range, covering six sizes from 81/86 cm (32/34 in) through to 132/137 cm (52/54 in) bust measurement. Actual finished measurements range from 88 cm (34¾ in) to 141 cm (55½ in), providing a comfortable, relaxed ease across all sizes. Full lengths range from 52 cm to 65 cm (measured from the back of the neck), and the sleeve length is a consistent 7 cm (2¾ in) across all sizes, giving the garment its characteristic short, neat sleeve.

Techniques Used

• Flat knitting worked in pieces and seamed, with the option to use a circular needle for larger sections if preferred
• Garment shaping including bust, armhole, and neckline shaping appropriate for an intermediate knitter
• Ribbing or edging techniques typically used on cardigans for neat borders, button bands, and cuffs
• Seaming to join the knitted pieces into a finished garment

Stitches Used

• Knit and purl stitches forming the main fabric of the cardigan body and sleeves
• Rib stitch (typically 1x1 or 2x2 ribbing) used for welts, cuffs, and front bands to provide elasticity and a tidy finish
• Standard increase and decrease stitches used throughout for shaping armholes, shoulders, and neckline

Materials: Yarn

The pattern is designed specifically for Sirdar Summer Linen DK in shade 204, a double knit weight yarn with a linen content that gives it a beautiful drape and a subtly textured, breathable quality — ideal for a warm-season cardigan. The yarn is sold in 50g balls, and the quantity required ranges from 8 balls (smallest size) to 16 balls (largest size).

Sirdar also notes that this pattern is suitable for a wide range of alternative DK yarns, including Country Style DK, Crofter DK, Harrap Tweed DK, Amalfi DK, Cotton DK, Toscana DK, Dapple DK, Sirdar No.1 DK, Colourwheel DK, and Colourwheel Dazzle DK. Knitters should note that yarn amounts may vary when substituting, and tension should always be checked carefully before beginning.

Materials: Needles

• 4mm (UK8 / USA6) knitting needles — either a standard pair or an 80cm circular needle — used for the main body fabric
• 3¼mm (UK10 / USA3) knitting needles — either a standard pair or an 80cm circular needle — used for ribbed edgings and borders, where a tighter tension creates a neat, professional finish