V Neck and Shawl Collared Cardigans in Hayfield Chunky Tweed - 7490 - Downloadable PDF

V Neck and Shawl Collared Cardigans in Hayfield Chunky Tweed

What is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern from Hayfield includes instructions for two distinct cardigan designs: a V Neck Cardigan and a Shawl Collared Cardigan. Both styles are crafted using Hayfield Chunky Tweed yarn and are available in six size options, ranging from 81/86cm (32/34in) bust to 132/137cm (52/54in) bust. The pattern accommodates a wide range of body measurements with actual finished garment measurements spanning from 92cm (36¼in) to 144cm (56¾in) across the chest. Full length measurements range from 60cm to 73cm (23¾in to 28¾in), with adjustable sleeve lengths from 46cm to 49cm (18in to 19¼in).

Techniques Used

These cardigans are constructed using fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate crafters. The primary stitch pattern employed throughout the garments is Irish moss stitch, which creates a textured, reversible fabric with visual interest and dimensional appeal. The pattern requires working with two different needle sizes to achieve proper fabric structure and drape. Shaping techniques are incorporated to create proper fit through the body and sleeves, with button bands worked as part of the cardigan construction. The adjustable sleeve length feature allows knitters to customize the garment to their specific proportions.

Stitches Used

• Irish Moss Stitch: The primary stitch pattern used throughout both cardigan designs, worked over the main body and sleeves to create texture and structure
• Stockinette Stitch: Typically used for button bands and finishing details to create a smooth, refined appearance
• Ribbing: Commonly employed at cuffs, hem, and neckline edges to provide elasticity and a finished look

Materials Required

Yarn: Hayfield Chunky Tweed yarn in 100g balls is the specified fiber for this pattern. The V Neck Cardigan requires 5 to 8 balls depending on size (shade 183), while the Shawl Collared Cardigan requires 6 to 10 balls depending on size (shade 185). Chunky weight yarn creates a warm, durable fabric that works up quickly and provides excellent stitch definition.

Needles: Two pairs of knitting needles are required: one pair of 6½mm (UK size 3, USA size 10.5) needles for the main fabric, and one pair of 5½mm (UK size 5, USA size 9) needles for ribbed edgings and finishing. The larger needles accommodate the chunky yarn weight while the smaller needles create tighter, more elastic edges.

Notions: Between 5 and 6 buttons are needed for each cardigan, depending on the finished size, to complete the front closure.

Tension and Gauge

The pattern specifies a tension of 14 stitches and 19 rows to 10cm (4in) when working Irish moss stitch on 6½mm needles. Achieving correct tension is essential for proper garment fit and sizing. Knitters should work a tension swatch before beginning the project to ensure their gauge matches the pattern requirements, adjusting needle sizes as needed to achieve the specified measurements.