Cardigans in Hayfield Bonus Aran with Wool - 7984 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigans in Hayfield Bonus Aran with Wool – Pattern 7984

Pattern 7984 from Hayfield is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern featuring two classic cable cardigans worked in Hayfield Bonus Aran yarn: a Round Neck Cardigan and a Hooded Cardigan. Both designs are crafted at an intermediate skill level and are sized generously to fit a wide range of figures, from a 81/86 cm (32/34 in) bust up to a 132/137 cm (52/54 in) bust, making this an inclusive pattern that caters to a broad audience. The inclusion of larger sizes is highlighted on the pattern cover, making it especially appealing to knitters who have previously struggled to find well-fitting aran-weight cardigan patterns.

Design Overview

Round Neck Cardigan (Colourway F119, Shade 674)

The first design is a classic round neck cardigan featuring prominent cable panel detailing. The neat, traditional neckline makes this a versatile wardrobe staple that works equally well dressed up or worn casually. The structured silhouette is achieved through careful shaping combined with the natural stitch definition of aran-weight yarn. Finished with 7 or 8 buttons depending on size, the button band provides a neat, polished closure.

Hooded Cardigan (Colourway F119, Shade 726)

The second design is a hooded cardigan, offering a more relaxed and contemporary feel while retaining the same beautiful cable panel construction as the round neck version. The hood is worked as an integral part of the garment, and a stitch holder is required during its construction to hold stitches while the hood shaping is completed. Like the round neck version, it fastens with 7 or 8 buttons depending on the size being knitted.

Sizing and Measurements

Both cardigans are available in six sizes, with the following actual chest measurements:

• 81/86 cm (32/34 in) – actual measurement 91 cm (36 in)
• 91/97 cm (36/38 in) – actual measurement 102 cm (40 in)
• 102/107 cm (40/42 in) – actual measurement 111 cm (43¾ in)
• 112/117 cm (44/46 in) – actual measurement 122 cm (48 in)
• 122/127 cm (48/50 in) – actual measurement 131 cm (51½ in)
• 132/137 cm (52/54 in) – actual measurement 142 cm (56 in)

Full length ranges from 60 cm (23¾ in) in the smallest size up to 73 cm (28¾ in) in the largest. Sleeve length is noted as adjustable, with a guide length of approximately 46–48 cm (18–19 in) across the size range, giving knitters flexibility to customise the fit.

Techniques and Stitches Used

Both cardigans are primarily knitted flat in pieces and seamed together, a traditional construction method well suited to intermediate knitters. The standout feature of both designs is the cable panel, which spans 38 stitches and measures 16 cm (6¼ in) in width at the correct tension. Cables are a classic aran knitting technique in which groups of stitches are crossed over one another using a cable needle, creating the characteristic twisted rope or plait effect that is synonymous with aran knitwear.

• Cable knitting – worked using a cable needle to create the signature textured panel running through both designs
• Rib stitch – typically used on aran cardigans for welts, cuffs, and button bands to provide elasticity and a neat finish
• Stocking stitch – used for the main body fabric alongside the cable panel, providing a smooth, classic background
• Shaping techniques – including armhole, sleeve, and neckline shaping appropriate to intermediate-level knitters
• Hood construction