Cardigan in Sirdar Temptation - 8243 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigan in Sirdar Temptation – Pattern 8243

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Sirdar provides full instructions for knitting a classic women's cardigan using Sirdar Temptation yarn. The design is suitable for intermediate knitters and is available in a generous range of six sizes, making it an inclusive and versatile pattern for a wide variety of figures.

What Is Being Made

The pattern produces a women's cardigan with set-in sleeves, a shaped neck, and a neat button fastening. It is a timeless, wearable garment designed to fit bust measurements ranging from 81/86 cm (32/34 in) up to 132/137 cm (52/54 in), with actual finished measurements spanning from 96 cm (37¾ in) to 147 cm (58 in). The full length of the finished cardigan ranges from 48 cm (19 in) to 74 cm (29¼ in), measured from the back of the neck, and sleeve length runs from approximately 42 cm to 44 cm (16½ to 17¼ in), noted as adjustable to suit personal preference.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern is written specifically for Sirdar Temptation, a DK weight yarn, used here in shade 811 (F225). The quantity of yarn required depends on the size being knitted:

• 6 balls for sizes 81/86 cm and 91/97 cm
• 7 balls for size 102/107 cm
• 8 balls for size 112/117 cm
• 9 balls for size 122/127 cm
• 10 balls for size 132/137 cm

Each ball weighs 50g. The pattern also calls for one Sirdar Elegant Button, product code BS600-0079, used as the cardigan's fastening.

Needles and Notions

Two pairs of knitting needles are required:

• 5½mm needles (UK5 / USA9) – used for the main body of the cardigan
• 4½mm needles (UK7 / USA7) – used for the cast-on and border sections

Additionally, stitch holders are needed to hold stitches while working the neck and shoulder shaping.

Tension

Achieving the correct tension is essential for this pattern. The stated tension is 14 stitches and 19 rows to 10 cm (4 in) measured over stocking stitch on 5½mm needles. Knitters are advised to check their tension swatch carefully before beginning: if fewer stitches are achieved, switch to a thinner needle; if more stitches result, use a thicker needle. Working to the correct tension ensures the finished cardigan matches the stated measurements.

Techniques Used

This is an intermediate level knitting pattern that draws on a range of standard knitting techniques. Knitters will work:

• Thumb method cast-on – used to begin the back section
• Shaping techniques – including increasing and decreasing to shape the armholes, shoulders, and neckline
• Shoulder shaping – worked by casting off stitches at the beginning of successive rows
• Neck shaping – worked on the left and right fronts separately to create a neat neckline
• Working in the round of flat knitting – the garment pieces are knitted flat and seamed
• Stitch holder usage – stitches are placed on holders and returned to the needle when working the neck and joining sections

Stitches Used

The cardigan is constructed using a combination of two foundational knitting stitches:

• Stocking stitch (st-