Cardigans with Draped Fronts in Sirdar Summer Linen DK - 8135 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigans with Draped Fronts in Sirdar Summer Linen DK – Pattern 8135

This Sirdar pattern (number 8135) provides instructions for a Cardigan with Draped Fronts knitted in Sirdar Summer Linen DK. Two versions are included within the same pattern: a long-sleeved cardigan and a short-sleeved cardigan, making it a versatile purchase for knitters who want a warmer or lighter-weight garment from a single download. The pattern is rated Easy Knit, making it an ideal project for beginner to confident beginner knitters who are looking to build their skills while producing a wearable, stylish result.

What Is Being Made

The finished garment is a draped-front cardigan, a relaxed and elegant style characterised by soft, flowing front panels that fall open rather than fastening with buttons or a zip. This creates a graceful, layered look that suits both casual and smart-casual occasions. The open drape at the front gives the cardigan a contemporary feel while keeping the construction accessible for newer knitters.

The pattern covers a generous size range, from a 32/34 inch (81/86 cm) bust up to a 52/54 inch (132/137 cm) bust, with six sizes in total. Actual finished measurements range from 106 cm (41¾ in) to 157 cm (62 in) around the chest, providing comfortable ease across all sizes. Full length ranges from 55 cm to 68 cm measured from the back of the neck, depending on size.

• Long-sleeved version: Sleeve length ranges from 44 cm to 46 cm (approximately 17¼ to 18 inches), described as adjustable to suit individual arm length preferences.
• Short-sleeved version: Sleeve length is a consistent 10 cm (4 inches) across all sizes, creating a neat cap or short sleeve suitable for warmer weather.

Techniques Used

As an Easy Knit pattern, the construction relies on straightforward, beginner-friendly techniques. The draped front effect is achieved through shaping and the natural drape of the DK weight yarn rather than complex stitch manipulation, making it approachable without sacrificing visual impact. Knitters will work the garment in separate pieces — typically a back, two fronts, and sleeves — before seaming them together, a classic construction method that helps beginners learn garment assembly skills.

Adjustable sleeve length is noted in the pattern, meaning knitters are guided on how to lengthen or shorten the sleeves to suit their own measurements, a useful practical skill for anyone new to garment knitting.

Stitches Used

While the PDF does not enumerate every stitch explicitly in the extracted content, patterns of this type and difficulty level from Sirdar characteristically use:

• Knit stitch and purl stitch as the foundation of all fabric sections
• Stocking stitch (stockinette) for the main body and sleeve fabric, producing a smooth, draping surface well suited to the fluid front panels
• Rib stitch (typically a knit 1, purl 1 or knit 2, purl 2 rib) for cuffs and borders, providing elasticity and a neat finish
• Simple increases and decreases for sleeve shaping and armhole shaping

Materials – Yarn, Needles, and Alternatives

The primary recommended yarn is Sirdar Summer Linen DK (product code F040), a DK weight yarn with a linen-blend composition that gives the finished fabric a beautiful drape, breathability, and a subtle natural texture — qualities that make it particularly well suited to a flowing draped-front style.

• Long-sleeved cardigan in shade 206: Requires between 11 and 19 balls of 50g depending on size (sizes 32/34 through 52/54).
• Short-sleeved cardigan in shade 203: Requires between 9 and