Long and Short Sleeved Cardigans in Sirdar Soukie DK - 2418 - Downloadable PDF

Long and Short Sleeved Cardigans in Sirdar Soukie DK – Pattern 2418

This official Sirdar knitting pattern (pattern number 2418) provides instructions for two classic girls' cardigans: a long sleeved cardigan and a short sleeved cardigan. Both designs are worked in Sirdar Soukie DK yarn and are sized to fit girls aged 2 to 13 years, covering chest measurements from 56 cm (22 in) up to 81 cm (32 in). The pattern is available as a downloadable PDF, making it instantly accessible for knitters of all levels.

About the Designs

Both cardigans share the same classic silhouette and construction method, differing primarily in sleeve length. The long sleeved version features full-length sleeves with an adjustable sleeve length option, while the short sleeved version features a neat cap-style sleeve of just 2 cm (¾ in) — ideal for warmer weather or layering over other garments. Each cardigan fastens with a single button, giving the design a clean, elegant finish. The pattern covers the back, left front, right front, and sleeves as separate pieces that are seamed together.

Sizes and Measurements

• Ages covered: 2–3, 4–5, 6–7, 8–9, 10–11, and 12–13 years
• Chest sizes: 56, 61, 66, 71, 76, and 81 cm (22–32 in)
• Actual garment measurement: 59–85 cm (23¼–33½ in), incorporating a small amount of positive ease
• Full length: 32–50 cm (12½–19¾ in) depending on size
• Long sleeve length: 24–42 cm (9½–16½ in), with an adjustable longer option of 29.5–42.5 cm (11½–16¾ in)
• Short sleeve length: 2 cm (¾ in) across all sizes

Techniques Used

The cardigans are constructed using straightforward knitting techniques, making this pattern well suited to beginner and intermediate knitters. Key techniques include:

• Thumb method cast on — used throughout for casting on stitches at the beginning of each piece
• Stocking stitch (st-st) — the main fabric of both cardigans, worked throughout on the back, fronts, and sleeves
• Ribbing or border stitches — worked on smaller needles to create neat, firm edges at the cuffs and lower body
• Decreasing — using k2tog (knit two together) for shaping at armholes, sleeve caps, and necklines, worked on alternate rows to create smooth, gradual shaping
• Increasing — used to shape the sleeves from cuff to underarm on the long sleeved version
• Casting off — used to finish shoulder seams and neckline edges
• Working in rows — the entire garment is worked flat in rows, with pieces seamed together on completion

Stitches Used

• Knit (k) — the foundation stitch used throughout
• Purl (p) — combined with knit to form stocking stitch; the back of the work is typically purled
• Stocking stitch (st-st) — alternating knit and purl rows to produce the smooth, classic fabric used for the main body and sleeves
• k2tog (knit two together) — a right-leaning decrease used for shaping
• Rib stitch — used on borders and cuffs for elasticity and a tidy finish

Materials Required

The pattern is written specifically for Sirdar Soukie DK yarn, used