Cardigans in Hayfield Spirit DK - 8040 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigans in Hayfield Spirit DK – Pattern 8040: Complete Summary

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Hayfield includes instructions for two distinct cardigan designs worked in Hayfield Spirit DK yarn: a His and Hers Cardigan suitable for both men and women, and a Ladies Long Cardigan. Both designs are labelled Easy Knit, making this an ideal pattern for beginner and near-beginner knitters who want to build confidence while producing a wearable, polished garment. The pattern generously includes larger sizes, covering a full range from 81/86 cm (32/34 in) up to 132/137 cm (52/54 in) to fit bust or chest, with actual finished measurements spanning 91 cm (36 in) to 142 cm (56 in).

Design One: His and Hers Cardigan

The His and Hers Cardigan is a classic, versatile design intended to work across a range of body types and genders. It is a mid-length cardigan with a full-length set-in sleeve construction and a neat button band front opening.

Sizing and Measurements

• To fit bust/chest: 81/86, 91/97, 102/107, 112/117, 122/127, 132/137 cm (32/34 – 52/54 in)
• Full length: 60 to 73 cm (23¾ to 28¾ in) depending on size
• Sleeve length: 46 to 51 cm (18 to 20 in), noted as adjustable

Materials

• Yarn: Hayfield Spirit DK, shade 403 (product code F252), in 100g balls
• Quantity: 3 to 6 balls depending on size
• Needles: 1 pair of 4mm (UK8 / USA6) knitting needles and 1 pair of 3¼mm (UK10 / USA3) knitting needles
• Buttons: 5 or 6 buttons depending on size

Techniques and Stitches

• Cast-on method: Thumb method cast-on, a beginner-friendly technique that creates a neat, elastic edge
• Main fabric stitch: Stocking stitch (knit on right side rows, purl on wrong side rows), worked on 4mm needles
• Rib stitch: Used for welts, cuffs, and button bands, worked on the smaller 3¼mm needles to create a firm, tidy edge
• Shaping techniques: Shoulder shaping via cast-off, neck shaping, and sleeve increases using the m1 method (picking up the loop between stitches and knitting into the back of it to avoid a hole)
• Decreasing: Standard knit two together (k2tog) and related decrease methods for armhole and neck shaping

Construction Notes

The cardigan is knitted in separate pieces — back, fronts, and sleeves — and then seamed together, which is a traditional and beginner-friendly construction approach. The button band is worked as part of the finishing process. Sleeve length is described as adjustable, allowing knitters to customise the fit easily.

Design Two: Ladies Long Cardigan

The Ladies Long Cardigan is a longer, more elegant version of the classic cardigan silhouette, designed specifically for women. It offers additional length through the body compared to the His and Hers version, creating a relaxed, flowing look that works well as a layering piece.

Sizing and Measurements

• To fit bust: 81/86, 91/97, 102/107, 112/117, 122/127, 132/137 cm (32/34 – 52/54 in)
• Full length: 75 to 88 cm