Sweater and Cardigan Knitted in King Cole Ultra Soft Chunky - 5826 - Downloadable PDF

King Cole 5826: Sweater and Cardigan Knitted in King Cole Ultra Soft Chunky – Pattern Summary

Overview

Pattern King Cole 5826 is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern from King Cole that includes instructions for two classic garments: a pullover sweater and a cardigan. Both designs are worked in a straightforward, wearable style suited to intermediate knitters looking to build confidence with shaping and garment construction at a chunky gauge. The pattern covers a generous size range of 81–117 cm (32–46 inches) chest circumference, making it accessible for a wide range of adult sizes.

Garments Included

• Sweater (Pullover): A classic over-the-head style jumper worked in the round or flat pieces and seamed, featuring a clean silhouette suited to everyday wear.
• Cardigan: An open-front cardigan version of the same design, offering a versatile layering piece that complements the sweater's styling.

Yarn and Materials

Both garments are designed specifically for King Cole Ultra Soft Chunky weight yarn. As the name suggests, this is a chunky weight yarn, which produces a thick, cosy fabric that knits up quickly — ideal for those who want to complete a full garment in a relatively short time. The chunky weight also gives the finished pieces excellent warmth and a satisfying, substantial drape.

• Yarn: King Cole Ultra Soft Chunky
• Needles: 6mm knitting needles are specified as the primary needle size for achieving the correct tension

Tension

The pattern requires a tension of 14 stitches and 20 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over stocking stitch on 6mm needles. Checking tension before beginning is strongly recommended by the pattern. If fewer stitches or rows than stated are achieved over 10 cm, knitters are advised to switch to finer needles; if more stitches or rows are achieved, larger needles should be used. Getting tension right is especially important in garment knitting, as even small differences can significantly affect the finished size and fit.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The construction of both the sweater and cardigan relies on fundamental knitting stitches and techniques, making this a rewarding project for intermediate knitters who are comfortable with the basics and ready to practise shaping:

• Stocking Stitch (st-st): The primary fabric stitch — knit on the right side, purl on the wrong side — creating a smooth, classic knitted surface
• Knit (K) and Purl (P): The two foundational stitches used throughout both garments
• Increasing (inc): Used to shape the garment pieces, such as sleeve shaping
• Decreasing (dec): Used for armhole, neckline, and other shaping throughout both designs
• Slipping stitches (sl): Referenced in the construction, including placing stitches onto a thread holder — a common technique when working necklines or shoulder seams
• Yarn Round Needle (yrn): A technique used to create a yarn-over, often used in edging or buttonhole details, particularly relevant to the cardigan
• Working stitches together (tog): Used in decrease shaping throughout
• Alternating rows (alt): Shaping is worked on alternate rows, a standard approach to achieving smooth, gradual curves

Construction and Difficulty

Rated as intermediate in difficulty, this pattern is well suited to knitters who have moved beyond simple scarves and hats and are ready to tackle full garment construction. Working with chunky yarn on 6mm needles means the fabric grows quickly, which can be very encouraging for those new to sweater knitting. The pattern uses conventional flat knitting methods, with pieces seamed together — a traditional approach that allows knitters to focus on one section at a time.

The inclusion of both a sweater and a cardigan in a single pattern leaflet offers excellent value, as