Cardigan & Sweater in King Cole Panache DK - 4271 - Downloadable PDF

Cardigan & Sweater in King Cole Panache DK – Pattern 4271

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from King Cole includes instructions for two garments: a classic cardigan and a sweater (jumper), both knitted in King Cole Panache DK yarn. The pattern is rated intermediate in difficulty and is designed to fit a wide range of adult sizes, from 71/76 cm to 112/117 cm (approximately 28/30 in to 44/46 in), making it a versatile choice for knitters who want a pattern that grows with their wardrobe or suits multiple members of the household.

About King Cole Panache DK

King Cole Panache DK is a double knit weight yarn, a popular choice for garment knitting due to its balance between stitch definition and wearability. DK weight yarn works up relatively quickly while still producing a fabric with excellent drape and detail, making it well suited to structured garments such as cardigans and sweaters. As with all King Cole patterns, a donation is made to the Pink Ribbon Foundation with every purchase.

Needles and Tension

Both garments are knitted using 4mm (US size 6) knitting needles, or whichever needle size is required to achieve the correct tension. Achieving accurate tension is emphasised as essential before beginning either garment. The main tension is:

• 22 stitches and 32 rows to 10 cm (4 in) over pattern
• Raglan sections are worked at a slightly different row tension of 34 rows to 10 cm (4 in), because the raglans are worked using fully fashioned shaping techniques

Knitters are advised to work a tension swatch before casting on, as even small variations in tension can significantly affect the finished size and fit of a garment.

Construction and Shaping Techniques

A key feature of both the cardigan and the sweater in this pattern is the use of raglan shaping. Raglans are a classic construction method where the sleeves and body are joined and shaped simultaneously from the underarm to the neckline, creating a diagonal seam line that runs from the armhole to the collar. This style is particularly flattering and allows for a comfortable, flexible fit across the shoulders.

Crucially, the raglan shaping in this pattern is worked using fully fashioned techniques. Fully fashioned shaping means that decreases and increases are worked a set number of stitches in from the edge, making the shaping itself a visible and decorative design detail rather than being hidden in the seam. This is considered a hallmark of quality knitwear construction and adds a professional, tailored finish to both garments.

Stitches Used

The pattern makes use of standard knitting stitches and techniques appropriate for an intermediate-level knitter. Based on the pattern content, stitches and methods referenced include:

• Knit (K) and Purl (P) – the foundational stitches used throughout both garments
• Pattern stitch (patt) – a defined stitch pattern worked across the main body sections
• Decrease techniques including slip one, knit, pass slipped stitch over (sl1, K, psso) and knitting stitches together (tog), used in the fully fashioned raglan shaping
• Increase (inc) and decrease (dec) methods for garment shaping throughout
• Yarn forward (yfwd) – used to create decorative effects or eyelets within the stitch pattern
• Knitting through the back of the loop (tbl) – a technique that twists a stitch for a neater, tighter finish
• Alternate row (alt) working – shaping worked on every other row, a common approach in raglan and armhole construction

The Cardigan

The cardigan is an open-fronted garment worked in King Cole Panache DK with raglan sleeves and fully fashioned shaping details. Car