Cardigan in Hayfield Illusion - 8020 - Downloadable PDF

Hayfield Illusion DK Cardigan Crochet Pattern (Pattern 8020) – Full Summary

This intermediate-level crochet pattern (Hayfield pattern number 8020) guides you through creating a beautifully textured women's cardigan using Hayfield Illusion DK yarn. The design is notable for its generous size range, spanning bust sizes 32/34 inches up to 52/54 inches (81/86 cm to 132/137 cm), making it an inclusive pattern suitable for a wide variety of figures. The finished garment is a classic, structured cardigan with set-in or fitted sleeves, a ribbed finish, and decorative bobble detailing — a combination that gives it both visual interest and a polished, wearable silhouette.

Garment Overview and Sizing

The cardigan is worked in six sizes with the following key measurements:

• To fit bust: 81/86, 91/97, 102/107, 112/117, 122/127, and 132/137 cm (32/34 to 52/54 in)
• Actual chest measurement: 97 cm (38 in) up to 150 cm (59 in), providing comfortable ease across all sizes
• Full length: 72 cm (28¼ in) for the smallest size, graduating to 85 cm (33½ in) for the largest
• Sleeve length: 44 cm (17¼ in) for the two smallest sizes, rising to 46 cm (18 in) for the larger sizes
• Width at underarm (back): approximately 48.5 cm (19¼ in) up to 75 cm (29½ in) depending on size

This is a downloadable PDF pattern, meaning you receive instant access to the full instructions after purchase, with no waiting for physical delivery.

Materials Required

The pattern is designed specifically for Hayfield Illusion DK yarn in shade 311, sold in 100g balls. The yarn quantities required vary by size:

• Sizes 32/34 and 36/38: 5 balls
• Size 40/42: 6 balls
• Sizes 44/46 and 48/50: 7 balls
• Size 52/54: 8 balls

Note: yarn quantities are based on average requirements when the specified tension and yarn are used. Substituting a different yarn or working at a different tension may affect the amount needed.

In addition to the yarn, you will need:

• A 5.00mm crochet hook (UK size 6, US size H/8), or whichever hook size is needed to achieve the correct tension
• 8 buttons for the three smallest sizes, or 10 buttons for the three largest sizes

Tension

Achieving the correct tension is essential to ensure the finished cardigan matches the stated measurements. The pattern specifies two separate tension checks:

• Main treble pattern: 13 stitches and 8 rows to 10 cm (4 in) using a 5.00mm hook
• Rib Relief stitch: 15 stitches and 5 rows should measure 10 cm × 4 cm (4 in × 1½ in) on a 5.00mm hook
• Bobble Braid Panel: 13 stitches should measure 9 cm (3½ in) in width

If your tension does not match, adjust your hook size accordingly — a smaller hook to tighten tension, or a larger hook to loosen it. Getting tension right before starting is especially important on a garment of this size and complexity.

Crochet Techniques and Stitches Used

This is classified as an intermediate crochet pattern, meaning it is best suited to crocheters who are comfortable with standard stitches and are ready to tackle more decorative and structural techniques. The pattern incorporates several distinct stitch patterns and methods:

Treble Crochet (Main Body Pattern