Sunset Top in Sirdar Soukie DK - 7356 - Downloadable PDF

Sunset Top in Sirdar Soukie DK – Pattern 7356: A Detailed Summary

The Sunset Top in Sirdar Soukie DK (Pattern 7356) is a knitted top designed for a wide range of sizes, making it an inclusive and versatile addition to any handknitter's wardrobe. Published by Sirdar, this downloadable PDF pattern is a fantastic choice for knitters looking to create a stylish, wearable garment with a relaxed silhouette and neat finishing details.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a knitted top with set-in or shaped sleeves, suitable for everyday wear. The garment is designed to fit bust measurements ranging from 81/86 cm (32/34 in) up to 132/137 cm (52/54 in), with six size options in total. The inclusion of larger sizes makes this pattern especially appealing for knitters who want stylish options across a full size range.

• Actual finished measurements range from 90 cm (35½ in) to 141 cm (55½ in) around the bust
• Full length ranges from 60 cm (23¾ in) to 73 cm (28¾ in) depending on size
• Sleeve length is 31–32 cm (12–12½ in) across all sizes, giving a short-to-mid-length sleeve

Techniques Used

This is a knitting pattern, worked flat in separate pieces that are seamed together. Knitters will use standard garment construction techniques including shaping for the body and sleeves. The pattern employs tension swatching as a critical first step — achieving the correct tension ensures the finished top matches the intended measurements. Knitters should expect to work increases and decreases to shape the armholes, neckline, and sleeve cap, which are common techniques in top-down or flat-knit garment construction.

The use of two different needle sizes is a key technique in this pattern. Smaller needles are typically used for ribbed or neat edging sections, while the larger needles are used for the main body fabric. This creates a professional finish with edges that lie flat and do not flare.

Stitches Used

• Stocking stitch – the primary stitch used throughout the body and sleeves, creating a smooth, classic knitted fabric on the right side
• Rib stitch – typically used at the cuffs, hem, and neckline for elasticity and a tidy finish (standard in Sirdar DK garment patterns of this style)

The stated tension is 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 in) over stocking stitch on 4mm needles. This is a standard DK tension and is essential to match before beginning the project.

Materials Required

The pattern is written specifically for Sirdar Soukie DK in shade 183, a DK weight yarn sold in 50g balls. The number of balls required varies by size:

• 81/86 cm: 9 balls
• 91/97 cm: 11 balls
• 102/107 cm: 12 balls
• 112/117 cm: 14 balls
• 122/127 cm: 15 balls
• 132/137 cm: 16 balls

The pattern also notes that this design is suitable for alternative Sirdar DK yarns, including Country Style DK, Click DK, Wash 'n' Wear Double Crepe DK, Crofter DK, Calico DK, Ella DK, Cotton DK, Beachcomber DK, and Harrap Tweed DK. Yarn amounts may vary when substituting, so knitters should check their tension carefully and adjust ball quantities accordingly.

Needles and Notions

• 1 pair of 4mm (UK8 / USA6) knitting needles – for the main body fabric
• 1 pair of 3¼mm (UK10