Cobalt Cardigan in Sirdar Country Style 4 Ply - 7226 - Downloadable PDF

Cobalt Cardigan in Sirdar Country Style 4 Ply – Pattern 7226

This beautifully detailed knitting pattern from Sirdar guides you through creating a classic fitted cardigan worked in Sirdar Country Style 4 Ply yarn. Designed to suit a wide range of sizes, the pattern is ideal for knitters who enjoy combining elegant lace detailing with the timeless appeal of a well-structured cardigan. The finished garment is a versatile, lightweight piece suitable for layering across seasons.

What Is Being Made

The pattern produces a fitted cardigan with set-in sleeves, a ribbed hem and cuffs, a decorative lace panel, and a button-band front opening. The cardigan is designed to fit bust sizes ranging from 81 cm to 107 cm (32 in to 42 in), corresponding to dress sizes 10 through 20, making it an inclusive and adaptable pattern. Actual finished measurements range from 85 cm to 111 cm (33½ in to 43¾ in) across the chest, with a full length of 53 cm to 61 cm (21 in to 24 in) depending on size. Sleeve length is listed as adjustable, with a guide length of approximately 43 cm to 47 cm (17 in to 18½ in).

Techniques Used

• Thumb method cast on – used to begin the back and other sections, providing a firm, elastic edge well suited to ribbing
• Shaping – armhole shaping and shoulder shaping are worked using cast-off rows, creating a neat, structured silhouette
• Lace panel construction – a defined lace panel of 21 stitches is incorporated into the fabric, adding visual interest and a delicate texture
• Tension management – the pattern places strong emphasis on achieving the correct tension before beginning, with clear guidance on adjusting needle size accordingly
• Adjustable sleeve length – the pattern allows knitters to personalise the sleeve length to their own preference

Stitches Used

• Stocking stitch (st-st) – the primary fabric stitch used throughout the body and sleeves, creating a smooth, classic knitted surface
• Rib stitch (1x1 rib) – worked as k1, p1 alternating across rows, used for the welts, cuffs, and bands to provide stretch and structure
• Lace pattern – a decorative panel stitch incorporating yarn forward (yfwd) and pass slipped stitch over (psso) techniques to create an open, lacy texture measuring 7.5 cm (3 in) across 21 stitches
• Decreasing – worked using k2tog (knit two together) and psso methods for shaping and lace detailing
• Slip stitch (s1) – slipping stitches knitways as part of the lace and shaping construction

Materials Required

The pattern calls for Sirdar Country Style 4 Ply yarn in shade 476, a 4 ply weight yarn sold in 50g balls. The quantity required ranges from 5 to 7 balls depending on the size being knitted. Two pairs of knitting needles are needed: 3¼mm (UK10 / USA3) needles for the main fabric and 2¾mm (UK12 / USA2) needles for the ribbed sections. You will also need 7 to 9 buttons (quantity varies by size) to complete the front opening.

Tension

Achieving the correct tension is essential to the success of this pattern. The stated tension is 28 stitches and 36 rows to 10 cm (4 in) over stocking stitch on 3¼mm needles. The lace panel of 21 stitches should measure 7.5 cm (3 in) in width. Knitters are advised to swatch before beginning and to adjust needle size as necessary — using a thinner needle if fewer stitches are achieved, or a thicker needle