Cardigans in Sirdar Country Style DK - 7035 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigans in Sirdar Country Style DK – Pattern 7035: Detailed Summary

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Sirdar presents two distinct cardigan designs worked in Sirdar Country Style DK yarn. Both garments are sized to fit bust or chest measurements ranging from 86 cm (34 inches) to 112 cm (44 inches), making the pattern accessible to a wide range of knitters looking for a classic, wearable layering piece. The two designs — a V Neck Cardigan and a Shawl Collar Cardigan — share the same construction framework but differ in their neckline styling and colourway, giving knitters a choice of finish to suit their personal taste.

Design One: V Neck Cardigan

The first design features a classic V-neck opening, a timeless and flattering neckline that works well for both casual and smart-casual occasions. The shaping of the V neck requires careful decrease work along the front edges, making this a satisfying project for knitters with some experience who are comfortable following shaping instructions across multiple rows.

Colourway and Yarn Requirements

The V Neck Cardigan is worked in a three-colour combination using Sirdar Country Style DK:

• Colour A – Shade 618: 7 to 10 x 50g balls depending on size, forming the main body of the garment
• Colour B – Shade 617: 1 to 2 x 50g balls used as a contrast or accent colour
• Colour C – Shade 619: 1 x 50g ball used as a further accent detail

Sizing and Measurements

The V Neck Cardigan is worked across six sizes. Actual finished measurements range from 91 cm (36 inches) to 117 cm (46 inches) at the chest, incorporating a modest amount of positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit. Full length ranges from 61 cm (24 inches) for the smallest size up to 75 cm (29½ inches) for the largest. Sleeve length is given as adjustable, ranging from 46 cm (18 inches) to 49 cm (19¼ inches).

Design Two: Shawl Collar Cardigan

The second design features a shawl collar, a broader and more structured neckline treatment that adds a cosy, draped quality to the finished garment. Shawl collars in knitting typically involve picking up stitches around the neckline and working outward in a ribbed or textured stitch to create the characteristic wide, folded lapel effect. This design is particularly well suited to cooler weather wear and adds a touch of traditional craftsmanship to the finished piece.

Colourway and Yarn Requirements

The Shawl Collar Cardigan uses a different colourway while retaining the same three-colour structure:

• Colour A – Shade 411: 7 to 10 x 50g balls as the main colour
• Colour B – Shade 617: 1 to 2 x 50g balls as a contrast shade
• Colour C – Shade 471: 1 x 50g ball as a further accent

Sizing and Measurements

The Shawl Collar Cardigan shares identical sizing with the V Neck design, covering the same six sizes from 86 cm to 112 cm to fit, with the same actual measurements, full lengths, and sleeve lengths as described above.

Techniques and Stitches Used

Both cardigans draw on a combination of foundational and intermediate knitting techniques. The patterns are worked flat on straight needles and seamed, which is a traditional construction method well suited to structured garments like cardigans.

Key Stitches and Techniques

• Stocking stitch: The primary fabric stitch, worked by knitting on right-side rows and purling on wrong-side rows. This creates a smooth, classic fabric and forms the basis of the tension measurement for the pattern.
• Ribbing: Typically used for welts, cuffs, and button bands, ribbing combines knit and purl stitches