Ladies Cardigan in Hayfield Chunky with Wool - 7152 - Downloadable PDF

Hayfield Chunky with Wool Ladies Cardigan – Pattern 7152

This knitting pattern (Hayfield pattern number 7152) provides full instructions for a ladies cardigan knitted in chunky weight yarn, designed to suit dress sizes 10 through 20, with bust measurements ranging from 81 cm (32 in) to 107 cm (42 in). The finished garment features a generous actual measurement of 90–116 cm across the chest, making it a relaxed, comfortable fit ideal for everyday wear. Full lengths range from approximately 63 cm to 71 cm depending on size, and sleeve lengths run from 43 to 47 cm, noted as adjustable to suit individual preference.

Design and Construction Overview

The cardigan is a classic, structured design worked in pieces and combines two of the most popular knitting techniques: stocking stitch as the main fabric and a cable panel as a decorative feature. The cable panel, worked over 9 stitches, measures approximately 6 cm (2½ in) wide and adds a timeless textural detail that elevates the garment beyond a simple plain knit. The finished piece is fastened with a single button, giving it a clean, minimalist closure that suits the chunky, relaxed aesthetic.

Because the pattern is worked at chunky gauge, it knits up relatively quickly compared to lighter weight projects, making it an excellent choice for knitters who want a satisfying, wearable result without committing to months of fine-gauge work. The construction approach — knitting the body and sleeves as separate pieces before seaming — is a traditional method that allows each section to be blocked and shaped individually for a neat, professional finish.

Techniques Used

• Stocking stitch – the primary fabric stitch, created by alternating knit rows on the right side and purl rows on the wrong side, producing a smooth, flat surface
• Cable knitting – worked over a 9-stitch panel using a cable needle to cross stitches and create a raised, twisted rope effect
• Ribbing or edging – typically used on cuffs, hems, and button bands in chunky cardigan constructions to provide stretch and a neat finish
• Shaping – including increases and decreases to form armholes, neckline, and sleeve tapers
• Working with stitch holders – stitches are placed on holders at key points such as the neckline, a standard technique for managing live stitches while other sections are completed

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch – foundational stitch used throughout
• Purl stitch – used on wrong-side rows of stocking stitch and within ribbed sections
• Cable stitches – crossed stitches worked with a cable needle over the 9-stitch decorative panel

Materials Required

The pattern is written specifically for Hayfield Chunky with Wool yarn, shade 692 (product code F030). This is a chunky weight yarn, and the quantity required ranges from 7 to 10 x 100g balls depending on the size being knitted — sizes 10 and 12 require 7 balls, size 14 requires 8 balls, size 16 requires 8 balls, size 18 requires 9 balls, and size 20 requires 10 balls. Yarn quantities are based on average requirements when the specified tension and yarn are used.

Two pairs of knitting needles are needed:

• 6½mm needles (UK size 3 / US size 10.5) – used for the main body fabric
• 5½mm needles (UK size 5 / US size 9) – used for edgings and borders

Additional notions required include a cable needle for working the cable panel, stitch holders for managing live stitches during construction, and 1 button for the fastening.

Tension

Achieving the correct tension is essential for a well-fitting garment. The specified tension is 14 stitches and 19 rows to 10 cm (4 in) over stocking stitch on 6½mm needles. The cable panel of