Waistcoat & Cardigan in King Cole Big Value Aran - 4432 - Downloadable PDF

Waistcoat & Cardigan in King Cole Big Value Aran – Pattern 4432

This King Cole pattern 4432 is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern offering two classic garment designs in one: a waistcoat (vest) and a cardigan, both knitted in King Cole Big Value Aran weight yarn. The patterns are sized to fit a wide range of chest measurements, from 71/76 cm (28/30 in) up to 112/117 cm (44/46 in), making them suitable for a broad spectrum of knitters. Both garments share the same yarn and needle specifications, and the pattern is rated as intermediate in difficulty, making it ideal for knitters who are comfortable with basic techniques and ready to explore more structured stitch work including cable panels.

King Cole supports the Pink Ribbon Foundation through the sale of their patterns, so every purchase contributes to a charitable cause.

Materials

• Yarn: King Cole Big Value Aran – a popular, affordable aran weight yarn well suited to structured knitted garments
• Needles: 5mm knitting needles are specified to achieve the correct tension, though knitters are advised to adjust needle size as needed based on their individual tension swatch
• Additional equipment: A cable needle (CN) is required for working the cable panel sections of the design

Tension

Achieving the correct tension is emphasised as essential before beginning either garment. The pattern specifies two tension measurements:

• The front cable panel of 35 stitches measures approximately 15 cm (6 in)
• 18 stitches and 24 rows to 10 cm (4 in) over double moss stitch using 5mm needles

Knitters are instructed to work a tension square before commencing and to switch to finer needles if there are fewer stitches than stated, or to larger needles if there are more stitches than stated.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Double moss stitch – used across the main body sections, this textured stitch creates a rich, tactile fabric with excellent drape and structure. Double moss stitch alternates knit and purl stitches in a two-row repeat offset pattern, giving a more pronounced texture than single moss stitch.
• Cable panel – a 35-stitch cable panel features prominently on the front of the garments, adding a classic, traditional aesthetic. Cables are created by crossing groups of stitches over one another using a cable needle, producing the characteristic rope-like or twisted column effect beloved in Aran knitting.
• Knit (K) and Purl (P) – fundamental knitting stitches forming the basis of all stitch patterns used throughout both designs
• Increasing and decreasing – used for shaping armholes, necklines, and other garment sections to achieve a well-fitted finish
• Moss stitch or ribbing – typically used on borders and edgings in garments of this style to provide neat, non-curling edges

The Waistcoat

The waistcoat is a sleeveless garment designed to be worn over a shirt or jumper, or as a standalone layer. It features the signature front cable panel combined with double moss stitch body sections, creating a garment that is both visually interesting and classically styled. The sleeveless construction makes it a versatile wardrobe piece suitable for a range of seasons. Shaping is worked at the armholes and neckline using standard decrease techniques.

The Cardigan

The cardigan shares the same yarn, needle size, and core stitch patterns as the waistcoat, including the prominent cable panel on the front and double moss stitch throughout the body. As a sleeved, open-fronted garment, the cardigan offers additional warmth and coverage. The front opening is a key design feature, and the garment is shaped at the armholes, sleeves, and neckline. The use of King Cole Big Value