Cardigans in King Cole Glitz DK - 5025 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigans in King Cole Glitz DK – Pattern 5025: A Detailed Summary

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from King Cole, reference number 5025, provides instructions for knitting cardigans in King Cole Glitz DK yarn. The pattern is designed to suit a wide range of sizes, covering chest measurements from 81 cm to 127 cm (32 in to 50 in), making it an inclusive and versatile choice for knitters who want a flattering, wearable cardigan in larger sizes. The design features a classic raglan sleeve construction, a timeless and practical shaping method that creates a smooth, diagonal seam running from the underarm to the neckline.

Who This Pattern Is For

Rated as a beginner level pattern, this design is well suited to those who are relatively new to garment knitting but are comfortable with fundamental techniques. The raglan sleeve shaping is often considered one of the more approachable construction methods for new knitters, as it involves straightforward, repetitive decreasing rather than complex set-in sleeve shaping. More experienced knitters will also appreciate the clean, classic result and the speed that DK weight yarn affords.

Yarn: King Cole Glitz DK

The pattern is specifically written for King Cole Glitz DK, a double knit (DK) weight yarn from the well-known British brand King Cole. As the name suggests, Glitz DK incorporates a subtle sparkle or glitter element into the yarn composition, giving finished garments a touch of glamour and visual interest without being overly flashy. This makes the cardigan suitable not only for everyday wear but also for occasions where a little extra shimmer is welcome. DK weight yarn is a popular choice for cardigans as it knits up relatively quickly while still producing a fabric with good stitch definition and drape.

Needles and Tension

The pattern specifies 4 mm knitting needles, or the size required to achieve the correct tension. The stated tension is 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over stocking stitch. As with all garment knitting, achieving the correct tension is essential to ensure the finished cardigan matches the intended measurements. The pattern advises knitters to use thinner needles if fewer stitches are produced per 10 cm, and thicker needles if more stitches are produced, until the correct gauge is achieved.

Construction and Design: Raglan Sleeve Cardigan

The headline design feature of this pattern is the raglan sleeve shaping. In raglan construction, the sleeve and body pieces are shaped simultaneously with diagonal decrease lines that extend from the underarm up to the collar, eliminating the need for a traditional armhole and shoulder seam. This results in a comfortable, relaxed fit across the shoulders and upper body, which is particularly flattering across a range of body shapes and sizes.

• Raglan shaping is worked through systematic decreasing on both the body and sleeve pieces, creating the characteristic diagonal lines.
• The cardigan opens at the front, making it easy to wear and style over other garments.
• The pattern covers sizes from 81 cm to 127 cm, specifically noted as larger sizes, reflecting a thoughtful approach to inclusive sizing.

Techniques and Stitches Used

As a beginner-friendly knitting pattern, the techniques involved are accessible and clearly defined within the pattern's abbreviations and instructions. The primary fabric stitch is stocking stitch, which is the standard combination of knit rows on the right side and purl rows on the wrong side, producing a smooth, classic fabric ideal for cardigans and garments.

Key Stitches and Techniques Include:

• Stocking stitch (knit and purl) – the main fabric stitch used throughout the body and sleeves
• Increasing (inc) – used to shape the sleeves and body as required
• Decreasing (dec) – central to the raglan shaping, worked at regular intervals to create the diagonal seam lines
• Slip stitch (sl 1) – slipping a stitch knitwise as part of decrease techniques
• Pass slipped stitch over (psso) – combined with slip stitch to form a left-leaning decrease,