Sweater in Sirdar Divine - 7174 - Downloadable PDF

Sweater in Sirdar Divine - Easy Knit Design

What is Being Made

This is a classic knitted sweater pattern from Sirdar, designed as an easy knit project suitable for knitters of various skill levels. The sweater is available in six size options, ranging from 81/86cm to 132/137cm bust measurements (32/34 inches to 52/54 inches), making it an inclusive design that accommodates petite to plus-size figures. The pattern includes full-length measurements ranging from 65cm to 78cm, with adjustable sleeve lengths starting at 44cm to 46cm depending on the size selected.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This sweater is constructed using fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate beginners and beyond. The pattern employs a straightforward approach to garment construction, utilizing stocking stitch as the primary fabric structure. The sweater is worked flat on straight needles and requires basic shaping techniques to create the body, sleeves, and neckline. Stitch holders are used during construction to hold stitches temporarily, a standard technique for managing live stitches when joining sections or creating neckline finishes.

Stitches Used

• Stocking Stitch: The main fabric stitch used throughout the sweater, created by alternating knit and purl rows to produce a smooth, classic finish on the right side
• Ribbing: Implied through the use of 3¼mm needles for tension work, typically used for cuffs, waistbands, and neckline finishing to create elasticity and structure

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This sweater is designed to be knitted using Sirdar Divine yarn in shade 064. The yarn is a DK weight (double knitting), which is a medium-weight yarn suitable for creating garments with good drape and structure. Yarn requirements vary by size: the smallest size (81/86cm) requires 5 balls of 50g yarn, while the largest size (132/137cm) requires 9 balls of 50g yarn. This means total yardage ranges from approximately 250 yards for the smallest size to 450 yards for the largest size, depending on the specific yardage per ball of Sirdar Divine.

Needles and Tools Required

The pattern requires two pairs of knitting needles to accommodate the different tensions needed for different sections of the garment. A pair of 4mm (UK size 8 / USA size 6) knitting needles is used for the main body and sleeves, worked at the primary tension. A pair of 3¼mm (UK size 10 / USA size 3) knitting needles is used for ribbed sections, which require a tighter tension to create the necessary elasticity and neat finish. Additionally, stitch holders are essential for managing stitches during construction, particularly when shaping the neckline and joining sections.

Tension and Gauge

Achieving correct tension is critical for this sweater to fit properly. The pattern specifies a tension of 18 stitches and 28 rows to 10cm (4 inches) over stocking stitch on 4mm needles. This tension measurement is the foundation for all sizing in the pattern. Knitters are advised to knit a tension swatch before beginning the project to ensure their personal gauge matches the pattern requirements. If your swatch produces fewer stitches than specified, a thinner needle should be used; if it produces more stitches, a thicker needle is required. This tension adjustment is crucial because even small variations in gauge can significantly affect the final garment dimensions.

Pattern Features

Labeled as an "Easy Knit" pattern, this sweater is designed to be accessible to knitters with basic to intermediate skills. The straightforward stocking stitch construction and simple shaping make it an excellent project for those building confidence in garment knitting. The inclusion of six size options demonstrates Sirdar's commitment to inclusive sizing, allowing a wide range of body types to find a proper fit. The adjustable sleeve length feature provides additional customization, allowing knitters to modify the sleeve length within the specified range to suit their personal preferences and proportions.