Cardigan shapes and weights
Classic buttoned cardigans, longline dusters, cropped boxy shapes, shawl collars and cocoon wraps. DK gives a neat, wearable everyday layer; aran and chunky knit faster and suit relaxed oversized fits; 4 ply is best for fine, close-fitting styles.
Choosing your size
- Measure a cardigan you already wear and compare with the pattern's finished chest measurement.
- Decide on ease: a couple of centimetres for a fitted look, considerably more for oversized.
- Always knit a tension square before starting a garment, and block it as you plan to wash the finished cardigan.
- Note the yardage rather than the ball count when buying yarn, and stick to one dye lot.
Cardigan knitting questions
Is there an easy cardigan knitting pattern free as a PDF? Yes, look for drop-shoulder or top-down designs with simple stocking stitch bodies.
Which DK cardigan patterns suit beginners? Those with straight edges, minimal shaping and knitted-on button bands.
