Cardigans in Stylecraft Softie Chunky - Downloadable PDF

Cardigans in Stylecraft Softie Chunky – Pattern Summary

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Stylecraft features two cardigan designs worked in Stylecraft Softie Chunky yarn. The pattern is graded across a wide range of sizes, fitting bust measurements from 81/86 cm (32/34 in) through to 122/127 cm (48/50 in), making it an inclusive and versatile choice for knitters who want a comfortable, cosy layering piece. The difficulty level is classed as intermediate, meaning knitters should have a confident grasp of basic shaping and rib techniques before beginning.

About the Two Designs

Design One: V Neck Cardigan

The first garment is a classic V Neck Cardigan, a timeless wardrobe staple that works beautifully in a chunky weight yarn. The V-shaped neckline creates an elegant, flattering silhouette, and the relaxed, wearable shape makes this cardigan suitable for both casual and smart-casual occasions. The pattern is constructed in separate pieces — back, fronts, and sleeves — which are then seamed together, a traditional construction method that gives the finished garment excellent structure and drape.

The actual back measurements across the sizes are approximately 111 cm, 123 cm, 131 cm, 140 cm, and 151 cm, reflecting a generous, comfortable fit at each size. The back is cast on using 5 mm needles, with stitch counts ranging from 32/34 stitches up to 48/50 stitches depending on the size being worked.

Design Two: Second Cardigan Style

The PDF includes a second cardigan design, offering knitters a choice of two distinct looks from a single pattern purchase. While full construction details for the second design follow the same general approach — worked flat in pieces and seamed — the two designs allow for variety in styling, making this pattern pack excellent value for intermediate knitters looking to build their handknitted wardrobe.

Stitches and Techniques Used

Both cardigans make use of well-established knitting stitches and techniques that are well within reach of an intermediate knitter. The key stitches and methods featured include:

• 2x2 Rib – Row 1 (right side): K2, *p2, k2; repeat from * to end. Row 2: P2, *k2, p2; repeat from * to end. This classic ribbing stitch is used for welts, cuffs, and button bands, providing elasticity and a neat, professional finish.
• Stocking Stitch – The main body fabric of the cardigans, worked by alternating knit rows on the right side and purl rows on the wrong side, creating a smooth, flat fabric that showcases the softness of the chunky yarn.
• Shaping techniques – Including increases and decreases to shape the armholes, V-neck, and sleeve heads, requiring the knitter to follow row-by-row instructions carefully.
• Seaming – The pieces are joined using standard seaming methods, an important finishing skill for any intermediate knitter.
• Errata note included – The pattern PDF contains an important correction: there is one stitch fewer on rows 3 and 4 (15 stitches instead of 16 stitches), with the stitch restored on row 5. Knitters should take note of this correction before beginning to ensure accurate stitch counts throughout.

Materials Required

Yarn

Both designs are worked in Stylecraft Softie Chunky, a chunky weight yarn from the trusted UK brand Stylecraft. As the name suggests, Softie Chunky is known for its exceptionally soft handle, making it a pleasure to knit with and comfortable to wear against the skin. Its chunky weight means these cardigans knit up relatively quickly compared to finer yarns, making them a rewarding project for intermediate knitters who want satisfying, speedy progress.

Needles

• 5 mm knitting needles – used for the main body and sleeves of both cardigans.
• A smaller needle size may be referenced for ribbed sections; knitters should check the full pattern PDF for complete needle requirements across all sections.