Jumper in Stylecraft Highland Heathers DK - 9863 - Downloadable PDF

Stylecraft Highland Heathers DK Jumper – Pattern 9863: Round Neck and Polo Neck Sweaters

Pattern 9863 from Stylecraft is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern featuring two classic sweater designs: a Round Neck Sweater and a Polo Neck Sweater, both worked in Stylecraft Highland Heathers DK yarn. Rated as Easy and aimed at intermediate knitters, this pattern is an excellent choice for those looking to build confidence with cable techniques while producing a beautifully textured, wearable garment. The inclusion of larger sizes makes it a genuinely inclusive pattern, covering a wide range of fits.

Designs Included

Round Neck Sweater

The Round Neck Sweater is a timeless, everyday pullover featuring a classic silhouette with a neat ribbed neckline. The design incorporates easy cable panels set against a stocking stitch background, creating visual interest without overwhelming complexity. The cable panel runs vertically through the centre of the body, flanked by smooth knit sections that allow the textured stitchwork to stand out beautifully — particularly effective in the heathered tones of Stylecraft Highland Heathers DK.

• Back construction: Cast on using the thumb method on 3¼mm needles, beginning with 25 rows of 1x1 rib for a neat, stretchy welt.
• A decrease row is worked to shape the stitch count before moving to the main body on 4mm needles.
• The main body pattern places a 16-stitch cable panel at the centre, bordered by 3-stitch reverse stocking stitch columns (purl ridges) and flanked by stocking stitch sections on either side.
• Available in five sizes to fit bust measurements of 81–86cm up to 122–127cm (32–34in to 48–50in).
• Actual garment measurements range from 103cm to 143cm (40½in to 56¼in), offering a comfortable, relaxed fit across all sizes.

Polo Neck Sweater

The Polo Neck Sweater shares the same easy cable construction as the Round Neck version but features a polo neck collar for added warmth and a more elevated, fashion-forward look. This makes it ideal for cooler seasons and pairs naturally with the rustic, heathered character of Stylecraft Highland Heathers DK. The polo neck is typically worked in rib to match the welts and cuffs, giving the finished garment a cohesive, polished appearance.

Sizing and Length Options

Both sweaters are offered in two length options — a shorter version and a longer version — giving knitters flexibility to customise the fit to their preference:

• Short version full length: 54cm to 65cm (21¼in to 25½in) depending on size
• Long version full length: 72cm to 83cm (28¼in to 32¾in) depending on size
• Sleeve length: 44cm to 46cm (17¼in to 18in) across all sizes

Stitches and Techniques Used

Despite being labelled Easy, this pattern introduces knitters to a satisfying range of classic techniques that build a strong foundation in garment knitting:

• 1x1 Rib: Used for welts, cuffs, and neckbands to provide elasticity and a tidy finish
• Stocking Stitch: Forms the main body fabric on either side of the cable panel
• Reverse Stocking Stitch: Used as a border to frame and define the cable panel
• Easy Cable: A 16-stitch cable panel runs centrally through the garment, adding classic texture and structure
• Thumb Cast-On Method: Specified for casting on, producing a firm and flexible edge
• Shaping decreases: A decrease row is worked after the rib to reduce stitch count and shape the body correctly before beginning the main pattern

Materials