Cardigans in Sirdar Beachcomber DK - 7278 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigans in Sirdar Beachcomber DK – Pattern 7278

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Sirdar includes instructions for two classic cardigans: a long-sleeved cardigan and a three-quarter sleeved cardigan, both worked in Sirdar Beachcomber DK yarn. The pattern is designed to be inclusive, covering an impressive range of sizes from a 32/34 inch to a 52/54 inch bust (81/86 cm to 132/137 cm), making it a versatile choice for a wide variety of knitters. Both designs share a similar elegant construction but offer a different sleeve length option to suit personal style and seasonal preference.

About the Designs

Long-Sleeved Cardigan

The long-sleeved version is a timeless, wearable cardigan suited to cooler weather or year-round layering. It features a full-length sleeve measuring approximately 46 to 48 cm (18 to 19 inches) depending on size, and a finished full length ranging from 72 to 85 cm (28¼ to 33½ inches). The actual bust measurement of the finished garment ranges from 89 cm to 140 cm (35 to 55¼ inches), providing a comfortable, relaxed fit across all sizes.

This version is knitted in Sirdar Beachcomber DK shade 252 and requires between 8 and 12 balls of 50g yarn depending on the size being made.

Three-Quarter Sleeved Cardigan

The three-quarter sleeved cardigan offers a lighter, more contemporary silhouette, with sleeves measuring approximately 30 to 32 cm (11¾ to 12½ inches). It shares the same body construction and finished dimensions as the long-sleeved version, making it an ideal warm-weather or transitional-season alternative. This version is knitted in Sirdar Beachcomber DK shade 255 and requires between 7 and 12 balls of 50g yarn depending on size.

Techniques and Stitches Used

Both cardigans combine classic and decorative knitting techniques to create a garment with texture and visual interest. Knitters working from this pattern will use a combination of the following:

• Stocking stitch – the foundational knit-and-purl fabric used across the main body panels, giving a smooth, classic finish
• Lace pattern – a decorative openwork technique worked using yarn forward (yfwd), yarn over needle (yon), yarn round needle (yrn), and decrease combinations such as k2tog, psso (pass slipped stitch over), and p2sso (pass 2 slipped stitches over), creating an elegant, airy texture
• Cable knitting – worked with a cable needle, adding classic twisted rope or panel details to the design
• Ribbing – typically used on cuffs, hems, and button bands to create neat, stretchy edges that help the garment retain its shape
• Shaping techniques – including increasing and decreasing to shape the sleeves, armholes, and neckline
• Stitch holders – used to hold stitches in reserve while other sections are worked, a common technique in garment construction for necklines and shoulders

The combination of stocking stitch and lace pattern in a single garment requires attention to tension, as the two fabric types have different stitch and row gauges. The pattern clearly states two separate tension measurements, which is an important detail for achieving the correct fit.

Tension

Achieving the correct tension is essential with this pattern. The stated tension is 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm over stocking stitch, and 18 stitches and 34 rows to 10 cm over lace pattern, both measured on 4mm needles. Knitters are strongly advised to work a tension swatch before beginning and to adjust needle size accordingly — using a thinner needle if fewer stitches are achieved, or a thicker needle if more stitches are achieved.