Cardigans in Hayfield Bonus Aran - 7246 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigans in Hayfield Bonus Aran Tweed – Pattern 7246

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Hayfield presents two distinct cardigan designs worked in Hayfield Bonus Aran Tweed, a richly textured aran-weight yarn. The pattern covers a wide range of sizes, making it suitable for children through to adults, fitting chest and bust measurements from 61/66 cm (24/26 in) up to 112/117 cm (44/46 in). Both garments are classic, structured cardigans that showcase the beautiful stitch definition characteristic of aran-weight knitting.

The Two Designs

Cardigan (Shade 733)

The first design is a classic fitted cardigan worked in Hayfield Bonus Aran Tweed shade 733. This garment is constructed using a combination of cable panels and block pattern, creating a richly textured fabric that is both warm and visually striking. The cable panel across 84 stitches measures 31.5 cm (12¼ in), demonstrating the density and intricacy of the stitch work involved. The actual finished chest measurement ranges from 72 cm (28¼ in) to 121 cm (47¾ in) depending on the size knitted, with a full length of between 56 cm (22 in) and 79 cm (31¼ in).

The sleeve length is listed as adjustable, ranging from 33 cm (13 in) to 48 cm (19 in), giving knitters flexibility to customise the fit. This is a particularly useful feature when knitting for children, whose arm lengths can vary considerably from standard measurements.

Collared Cardigan (Shade 800)

The second design is a Collared Cardigan worked in Hayfield Bonus Aran Tweed shade 800. As the name suggests, this version features a collar detail that adds a more tailored, polished finish to the garment. It shares the same size range and construction approach as the first cardigan, using the same stitch techniques and needle sizes. The collar adds a design element that makes this version particularly well suited to cooler weather and a slightly more formal aesthetic.

Both cardigans share the same sizing framework, with the actual chest measurement for the Collared Cardigan noted at 36 [40.5:45:50.5:56:60.5] cm (14 [16:17¾:20:22:24] in) across the relevant size range.

Techniques and Stitches Used

Both cardigans in this pattern employ a range of classic knitting techniques that are well suited to aran-weight yarn and will appeal to knitters with intermediate to advanced experience. The combination of structured stitch patterns gives both garments their characteristic texture and warmth.

• Cable knitting: A dedicated cable panel of 84 stitches forms a central feature of the design. Cables are created by crossing groups of stitches over one another using a cable needle, producing the twisted rope-like columns that are synonymous with traditional aran knitwear.
• Block pattern: A block stitch pattern is used across the body of the garment, providing an additional layer of texture that complements the cable panel. Block patterns typically alternate knit and purl stitches in a structured arrangement to create a raised, geometric surface.
• Knit and purl stitches: As the foundation of all the stitch patterns used, both knit and purl stitches are employed throughout, including in the ribbed edgings that finish the cuffs, hem, and button bands.
• Ribbing: Rib stitch is commonly used in aran garments for edgings and cuffs, providing elasticity and a neat, professional finish at the borders of the cardigan.
• Shaping: Standard garment shaping techniques are used to create the fitted silhouette, including increases and decreases at armholes, sleeves, and necklines.
• Cable needle technique: A cable needle is required to hold stitches temporarily while crossing cables, and is listed as a required accessory in the materials section.

Materials Required

Yarn

• Hayfield Bonus Aran Tweed is the specified yarn for both designs. This is an aran-weight yarn with a tweed character, providing warmth, structure, and a rustic, textured appearance ideal for cable and block st