Cardigans in Stylecraft Life DK - 9552 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigans in Stylecraft Life DK – Pattern 9552: SEO Summary

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Stylecraft presents two easy-knit cardigan designs for children, sized to fit ages 2–11 years (chest sizes 56–76 cm / 22–30 in). The pattern is worked in Stylecraft Life DK yarn and is rated as an intermediate level project, though the designs are described within the pattern itself as easy knit, making them accessible to knitters who are comfortable with basic shaping and simple stitch patterns. Both garments are classic children's cardigans with a timeless, wearable appeal.

Designs Included in Pattern 9552

Design 1: Round Neck Cardigan

The Round Neck Cardigan is a structured, fitted children's cardigan featuring a neat rounded neckline. It is constructed in multiple pieces — back, fronts, and sleeves — which are then seamed together, making it a great project for knitters looking to build confidence with garment construction.

Sizing and Measurements:

• To Fit Age: 2–3, 4–5, 6–7, 8–9, and 10–11 years
• To Fit Chest: 56, 61, 66, 71, 76 cm (22, 24, 26, 28, 30 in)
• Actual Measurement: 62, 66, 73, 77, 83 cm (24½, 26, 28¾, 30¼, 32¾ in)
• Full Length: 30, 34, 40, 44, 48 cm (11¾, 13½, 15¾, 17¼, 19 in)
• Sleeve Length: 24, 29, 33, 37, 41 cm (9½, 11½, 13, 14½, 16 in)

Techniques and Construction:

• The back is cast on using the thumb method, a popular and stretchy cast-on technique well suited to ribbed edges
• The lower edge begins with 7 rows of 2x2 rib (knit 2, purl 2 ribbing), which provides a neat, elasticated finish that helps the cardigan retain its shape at the hem
• A decrease row is worked on the 8th row to reduce stitch count before transitioning to the main body pattern, shaping the fabric for a better fit
• The main body fabric features a textured stitch pattern combining knit 5 and purl 5 columns, creating a subtle vertical ridge or block texture across the fabric — a simple but visually effective design detail
• Needle sizes change from 3¼ mm needles for the ribbed border to 4 mm needles for the main body, a standard technique in knitting patterns to ensure the border is firmer and the body fabric has the correct drape and gauge

Stitches Used:

• 2x2 Rib (knit 2, purl 2) for borders and cuffs
• Knit and Purl combination stitch pattern (k5, p5 repeat) for the main body fabric
• Purl decrease (p2tog) used in the transition row between rib and body
• Standard stocking stitch (stockinette) elements within the pattern rows

Design 2: Second Cardigan Design

The pattern booklet contains a second cardigan design alongside the Round Neck Cardigan, as indicated by the reference to two easy knit designs on the pattern cover. Both designs share the same size range — ages 2–11 years — and are worked in the same yarn and needle specifications, making it practical to knit both from a single pattern purchase. Full details of the second design's stitch pattern and construction are contained within the downloadable PDF.

Materials Required