Tunic in Sirdar Dapple DK - 8066 - Downloadable PDF

Sirdar Dapple DK Tunic Knitting Pattern (8066) – Detailed Summary

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Sirdar provides instructions for a relaxed-fit tunic suitable for a wide range of sizes, from a 32/34 inch bust up to a generous 52/54 inch bust. The inclusion of larger sizes makes this an especially versatile and inclusive design, ideal for knitters who want a stylish, wearable layering piece with a comfortable, slightly oversized silhouette. The pattern is rated intermediate in difficulty, making it a rewarding project for knitters who have moved beyond the basics and are ready to tackle a full garment with shaping and construction details.

About the Garment

The tunic is a long-line knitted top designed to be worn over leggings, jeans, or other fitted bottoms. It features a set-in or drop-shoulder sleeve construction with a defined sleeve length ranging from approximately 17¼ to 18 inches depending on size, though the pattern notes that sleeve length is adjustable, giving knitters the flexibility to customise the fit. The full length of the garment, measured from the back of the neck, ranges from 68 cm (26¾ in) to 81 cm (32 in) across the six size options, ensuring a true tunic-length finish across all sizes.

The actual chest measurement of the finished garment ranges from approximately 109 cm (43 in) to 145 cm (57¼ in), reflecting a generous amount of positive ease — the extra room built into the design beyond the body measurement. This ease contributes to the relaxed, drapey aesthetic typical of a tunic style. The pattern is graded across six sizes: 81/86, 91/97, 102/107, 112/117, 122/127, and 132/137 cm bust.

Techniques Used

As an intermediate knitting pattern, this tunic employs a range of standard garment construction techniques that go beyond simple rectangular knitting. Knitters working through this pattern can expect to use:

• Flat knitting worked in rows on straight needles, constructing the garment in separate pieces that are seamed together
• Ribbing, typically used at cuffs, hems, and necklines to create neat, elasticated edges — commonly worked on the smaller needle size
• Shaping techniques including increases and decreases to form the body silhouette, armhole shaping, and sleeve taper
• Stitch holder usage, as stitch holders are listed among the required materials, indicating that stitches are held live at certain points — most likely at the neckline — for later finishing
• Seaming and finishing, joining the front, back, and sleeve pieces into a completed garment

Stitches Used

While the full stitch list is contained within the pattern PDF, garments of this type worked in DK weight yarn on the specified needles typically incorporate:

• Stocking stitch (stockinette) as the main fabric stitch, creating a smooth, classic knitted surface
• Rib stitch (commonly 1x1 or 2x2 knit-purl ribbing) for welts, cuffs, and neckband edging

The combination of these stitches produces a clean, professional finish well suited to the drapey, textured qualities of Sirdar Dapple DK yarn.

Materials Required

Yarn

The pattern is designed for Sirdar Dapple DK, specifically shade 083 (product code F064), sold in 100g balls. The quantity required ranges from 4 balls for the two smallest sizes up to 6 balls for the two largest sizes, with 5 balls needed for the mid-range sizes. Yarn amounts are based on average requirements when the specified tension and yarn are used.

The pattern also notes compatibility with a broad range of alternative Sirdar DK-weight yarns, including:

• Country Style DK
• Crofter DK