Sweater and Cardigan in Sirdar Country Style DK - 9438 - Downloadable PDF

Sirdar Country Style DK Sweater and Cardigan – Pattern 9438

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Sirdar includes instructions for two classic knitwear designs: a pullover sweater and a cardigan, both worked in Sirdar Country Style DK yarn. The pattern is notable for its inclusive sizing, covering a wide range from a 32/34 inch bust right through to a generous 52/54 inch bust, making it an excellent choice for knitters of all sizes. Both garments share a similar construction philosophy and are designed to be practical, wearable everyday pieces with a timeless aesthetic.

Designs Included

The Sweater

The sweater is a classic pullover style worked in a main shade with a contrast shade accent. For the sweater, the recommended main shade is Country Style DK shade 411, with shade 417 used as the contrast. The number of 50g balls of main shade yarn required ranges from 6 balls for the smallest size up to 10 balls for the largest, while just 1 ball of the contrast shade is needed across all sizes. This economical use of a contrast colour suggests it is used for a decorative detail such as a stripe, neckband, or trim, adding visual interest without significantly increasing the yarn requirement.

The sweater's finished actual measurements range from 90cm (35½ inches) at the smallest size to 141cm (55½ inches) at the largest, providing comfortable ease over the stated bust measurements. The full length of the sweater is approximately 56cm (22 inches) for the smallest size, graduating to 66cm (26 inches) for the largest. Sleeve length is approximately 46–48cm (18–19 inches) depending on size, making these full-length sleeves suited to cooler weather wear.

The Cardigan

The cardigan version shares the same silhouette and sizing range as the sweater but features an open front, making it a versatile layering piece. For the cardigan, the main shade is Country Style DK shade 610, with shade 411 used as the contrast — a neat reversal that means the two garments complement each other beautifully when knitted as a set. Yarn requirements mirror those of the sweater: 6 to 10 balls of the main shade depending on size, plus 1 ball of contrast across all sizes.

The cardigan is slightly longer than the sweater, with a full length ranging from approximately 58cm (22¾ inches) to 68cm (26¾ inches). Sleeve lengths are consistent with the sweater at approximately 46–48cm (18–19 inches). The cardigan would typically feature a button band or front opening finish, likely worked in the contrast shade to tie the design together.

Yarn and Materials

Both patterns are designed for use with Sirdar Country Style DK, a double knitting weight yarn that is well-suited to everyday garment knitting. It is a smooth, versatile yarn that takes stitch definition well and is available in a broad palette of shades. The pattern notes that the designs are also suitable for Sirdar Wash 'n' Wear Double Crepe DK, Sirdar Click DK, and Sirdar Denim Tweed DK, giving knitters flexibility in their yarn choice. It is noted that yarn amounts may vary when substituting, so knitters should check their tension and yardage carefully.

As is standard for DK weight knitting patterns, the recommended tools would be a pair of knitting needles appropriate for double knitting yarn — typically 3.75mm (UK9 / US5) for the main fabric and 3.25mm (UK10 / US3) for any ribbing or borders, though knitters should refer to the tension information within the PDF for the exact needle sizes specified by Sirdar for this pattern.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

As a classic DK garment pattern from Sirdar, both the sweater and cardigan are constructed using well-established hand knitting techniques suited to confident beginners and intermediate knitters. Key techniques and stitches typically involved in patterns of this type include:

• Stocking stitch (stockinette stitch)