Collared and Round Neck Cardigans in Hayfield Bonus Aran Tweed - 7895 - Downloadable PDF

Collared and Round Neck Cardigans in Hayfield Bonus Aran Tweed – Pattern 7895

This intermediate-level knitting pattern from Hayfield presents two classic cardigan designs worked in the beautifully textured Hayfield Bonus Aran Tweed yarn: a Round Neck Cardigan and a Collared Cardigan. Both garments are sized generously, covering a wide range from 81/86 cm (32/34 in) through to 132/137 cm (52/54 in) bust, making this pattern an excellent choice for knitters who want an inclusive, versatile project. The pattern is available as a downloadable PDF, so you can get started immediately after purchase.

About the Two Designs

Round Neck Cardigan

The Round Neck Cardigan is a timeless, wearable style featuring a classic rounded neckline that suits a wide variety of body shapes and personal aesthetics. It is knitted in Hayfield Bonus Aran Tweed shade 685, a warm, characterful tweed colorway that gives the finished garment a rustic, artisan quality. The actual finished measurements range from 92 cm (36¼ in) to 143 cm (56¼ in) across the chest, with a full length of between 70 cm (27½ in) and 83 cm (32¾ in) depending on the size knitted. Sleeve length is given as approximately 46–48 cm (18–19 in) and is noted as adjustable, allowing knitters to personalise the fit. Yarn requirements range from 2 to 3 balls of 400g Hayfield Bonus Aran Tweed, making this a relatively economical project given the substantial weight of each ball.

Collared Cardigan

The Collared Cardigan adds a more structured, polished finish with the addition of a collar detail, making it equally suited to casual wear and smarter occasions. It is worked in Hayfield Bonus Aran Tweed shade 684, a complementary tweed tone. Sizing and finished measurements mirror those of the Round Neck version, with the same range of bust sizes and lengths available. Yarn requirements are similarly 2 to 3 balls of 400g Hayfield Bonus Aran Tweed across the size range. The collar construction adds a satisfying finishing element to the knit, giving knitters an opportunity to practise shaping and picking up stitches neatly.

Techniques and Construction

Both cardigans are constructed using traditional flat knitting techniques, with separate pieces — back, fronts, and sleeves — worked individually and then seamed together. This classic construction method is well suited to intermediate knitters who are comfortable with reading multi-size patterns and working increases, decreases, and shaping instructions.

A key feature of both designs is the use of cable knitting, which forms the primary stitch pattern across the fabric. Cables are a beloved Aran knitting tradition, creating raised, rope-like twists and crossings in the fabric that add both visual interest and a satisfying three-dimensional texture. Working cables requires the use of a cable needle, which is used to hold a small number of stitches temporarily to the front or back of the work while others are knitted, before the held stitches are worked in turn. This crossing action creates the characteristic twisted appearance of cable panels.

The tension specification is given as 26 stitches measuring 12 cm (4¾ in) over the cable pattern, which is an important detail for knitters to note. Because cable fabric draws in more than standard stocking stitch, achieving the correct tension over the cable pattern — rather than over plain stocking stitch — is essential for the finished garment to match the stated measurements. Knitters are always advised to work a tension swatch before casting on.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Cable stitch panels – the primary decorative and structural stitch pattern throughout both cardigans
• Ribbing – typically used at welts, cuffs, and button bands in Aran-weight cardigans to provide stretch and a neat finish
• Shaping – armhole, neck, and sleeve cap shaping using increases and decreases
• Collar construction – featured in the Collared Cardigan, requiring picked-up stitches and shaped