Sweater and Tunic Knitted in King Cole DK - 5715 - Downloadable PDF

King Cole DK Pattern 5715 – Sweater and Tunic Knitting Pattern Summary

Pattern 5715 from King Cole is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern offering two classic designs in one: a sweater and a tunic, both knitted in King Cole DK (double knit) weight yarn. Sized to fit bust measurements of 81–107 cm (32–42 in), this pattern is suitable for intermediate knitters who are comfortable working with stitch patterns and shaping techniques. As with all King Cole patterns, a donation is made to the Pink Ribbon Foundation with every purchase.

Designs Included

The Sweater

The sweater is a fitted or semi-fitted knitted top designed to be worn at hip length. It is worked in a stitch pattern that creates texture and visual interest beyond plain stocking stitch, making it an engaging project for knitters looking to develop their skills. The sweater follows classic construction methods, with separate front, back, and sleeve pieces seamed together on completion.

The Tunic

The tunic shares the same yarn and needle specification as the sweater but offers a longer, more relaxed silhouette. Tunics are typically worked to fall at the upper thigh or hip, making them versatile for layering over leggings or slim-fit trousers. Like the sweater, the tunic is constructed using the same stitch pattern and shaping principles, giving both garments a coordinated aesthetic while providing wearers with a choice of length and style.

Techniques and Construction

Both garments are knitted flat in separate pieces and then seamed, which is a traditional approach well suited to intermediate knitters. Key techniques used throughout the pattern include:

• Stocking stitch (st-st) – the foundation fabric, worked with knit stitches on the right side and purl stitches on the wrong side, producing a smooth, classic knitted surface
• Textured stitch pattern (patt) – an all-over pattern that adds surface detail and depth to both garments, worked across the main body and potentially the sleeves
• Decreasing – used for armhole shaping, neckline shaping, and sleeve tapering to create a well-fitted silhouette
• Yarn forward (yfwd) – a technique used to create deliberate yarn-overs, often contributing to lace or eyelet detailing within the stitch pattern
• Pass slipped stitch over (psso) – paired with slip stitches to create neat, directional decreases within the pattern
• Knitting through the back of stitch (tbs) – used to create twisted stitches that add definition and structure to the fabric
• Tension/gauge checking – the pattern specifies a tension of 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 in) over the stitch pattern on 4 mm needles, and knitters are strongly advised to knit a tension square before beginning

Stitches Used

The following stitches and abbreviations are central to working both designs:

• Knit (K) and Purl (P) – the two fundamental knitting stitches forming the basis of all fabric in the pattern
• Slip (sl) – stitches slipped without working, used in combination with decreases
• Yarn forward (yfwd) – creates an extra loop on the needle, used decoratively or structurally within the pattern repeat
• Pass slipped stitch over (psso) – a classic decrease technique used for shaping and pattern definition
• Knit/purl two together (tog) – standard decrease used throughout for shaping
• Through back of stitch (tbs) – produces a twisted stitch effect for added texture

Materials

Both the sweater and the tunic are designed to be knitted in King Cole DK (double knit) weight yarn. DK yarn is one of the most popular and versatile yarn weights, sitting between lightweight sport yarn and heavier aran weight. It produces a fabric that is light enough for comfortable everyday wear while still providing good stitch definition, making it ideal for showcasing the textured