Man's and Boy's Cardigans in Sirdar Country Style DK - 7123 - Downloadable PDF

Man's and Boy's Cardigans in Sirdar Country Style DK – Pattern 7123

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Sirdar provides instructions for two classic cardigans designed for both boys and men: a V Neck Cardigan and a Shawl Collared Cardigan. The pattern covers an impressive six sizes, ranging from a chest measurement of 61/66 cm (24/26 in) up to 112/117 cm (44/46 in), making it a versatile choice for knitters looking to create a wardrobe staple that works across ages and builds.

Designs Included

• V Neck Cardigan – A timeless, tailored cardigan featuring a classic V-shaped neckline. This style suits both casual and smart-casual occasions and is a perennial favourite for boys and men alike. The clean lines of a V neck make it easy to layer over shirts or T-shirts.
• Shawl Collared Cardigan – A more relaxed and cosy design featuring a shawl collar, which wraps softly around the neck for added warmth and a traditional, heritage-inspired aesthetic. This style is particularly well-suited to cooler weather and has a classic country feel that complements the yarn choice perfectly.

Sizing and Measurements

The pattern is graded across six sizes to fit chest measurements of 61/66, 71/76, 81/86, 91/97, 102/107, and 112/117 cm (approximately 24/26 through to 44/46 inches). Actual garment measurements range from 70 cm to 121 cm, providing a comfortable, classic fit. Full lengths range from 46 cm (18 in) for the smallest size up to 71 cm (28 in) for the largest. Sleeve lengths are listed as adjustable, starting at 33 cm (13 in) and extending to 50 cm (19¾ in), giving knitters flexibility to customise the fit.

Yarn and Materials

Both cardigans are designed to be knitted in Sirdar Country Style DK, a double knitting weight yarn. The V Neck Cardigan is shown in shade 623, while the Shawl Collared Cardigan is shown in shade 624. Each version requires between 6 and 15 balls of 50g depending on the size being knitted, with yarn quantities based on average requirements at the specified tension.

The pattern notes that the designs are also suitable for Sirdar Click DK, Wash 'n' Wear Double Crepe DK, Calico DK, and Cotton DK, though yarn amounts may vary when substituting. This flexibility makes the pattern accessible to knitters who may already have a compatible DK yarn in their stash.

Needles Required

• 4mm (UK 8 / USA 6) knitting needles – used for the main body fabric
• 3¼mm (UK 10 / USA 3) knitting needles – used for ribbing and borders
• 3¼mm (UK 10 / USA 3) 80 cm circular needle – required where specified, likely for collar or neckband finishing

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

As a DK weight knitting pattern, this project is worked flat on straight needles for the main garment pieces, with a circular needle used for certain finishing elements such as the shawl collar or neckband. The use of two needle sizes is a standard technique in knitting garments: the smaller needles create a tighter, neater fabric for the ribbed welts, cuffs, and button bands, while the larger needles produce the main stocking stitch or textured fabric of the body and sleeves.

Knitters can expect to work with techniques including:

• Rib stitch – typically a knit 1, purl 1 or knit 2, purl 2 rib for cuffs, welts, and front bands, providing elasticity and a neat finish