V Neck and Shawl Collar Cardigans in Hayfield Chunky With Wool - 7381 - Downloadable PDF

V Neck and Shawl Collar Cardigans in Hayfield Chunky With Wool – Pattern 7381

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Hayfield includes instructions for two classic cardigan designs: a V Neck Cardigan and a Shawl Collar Cardigan. Both are worked in Hayfield Chunky With Wool, a chunky-weight yarn that combines the warmth and durability of wool with easy-care practicality. The pattern is generously sized, covering six bust sizes from 81/86 cm (32/34 in) through to 132/137 cm (52/54 in), making it an inclusive choice for a wide range of knitters.

What Is Being Made

The pattern produces two separate but related cardigan designs, each with its own distinct neckline finish and character:

• V Neck Cardigan – A clean, tailored cardigan featuring a classic V-shaped neckline. This style is a wardrobe staple that works equally well layered over a shirt or worn as a standalone piece.
• Shawl Collar Cardigan – A cosier, more relaxed design featuring a generous shawl collar that wraps around the neckline for added warmth and a stylish, casual finish.

Both cardigans are designed with set-in or structured sleeves and button fastenings, giving them a neat, fitted silhouette despite being knitted in a chunky yarn. The actual finished measurements range from 91 cm (36 in) to 140 cm (55¼ in) across the chest, with full lengths ranging from 60 cm to 73 cm and sleeve lengths of approximately 46–48 cm, noted as adjustable to suit individual preferences.

Yarn and Materials

Both cardigans are knitted in Hayfield Chunky With Wool, a chunky-weight yarn sold in 100g balls. The two colourways specified in the pattern are:

• Shade 699 – used for the V Neck Cardigan
• Shade 691 – used for the Shawl Collar Cardigan

Yarn quantities required depend on the size being knitted, ranging from 5 balls for the smaller sizes up to 8 balls for the largest sizes. The wool content in Hayfield Chunky With Wool gives the finished fabric excellent stitch definition, a pleasant rustic texture, and natural warmth, making these cardigans ideal for autumn and winter wear.

Needles and Notions

• 6½mm (UK 3 / USA 10.5) knitting needles – used for the main body fabric
• 5½mm (UK 5 / USA 9) knitting needles – used for ribbed edgings and borders
• 5½mm (UK 5 / USA 9) 80cm circular needle – required if working the collar or button bands in the round
• 5 or 6 buttons depending on the size being knitted (5 buttons for smaller sizes, 6 for larger sizes)

Stitches and Techniques Used

Core Stitches

• Stocking stitch – the primary stitch used across the main body and sleeves of both cardigans, creating a smooth, classic fabric on the right side
• Rib stitch – used for the welts, cuffs, and button bands, providing elasticity and a neat, structured edge

Techniques

• Tension/gauge swatching – the pattern specifies a tension of 14 stitches and 19 rows to 10 cm (4 in) over stocking stitch on 6½mm needles, and knitters are strongly advised to check their tension before beginning to ensure accurate sizing
• Shaping – both designs incorporate armhole shaping, sleeve-head shaping, and neckline shaping worked through increases and decreases to achieve a well-fitted silhouette