Sweater in Hayfield Bonus DK - 8290 - Downloadable PDF

Hayfield Bonus DK Sweater – Knitting Pattern 8290

Pattern 8290 from Hayfield is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern for a classic colourwork sweater worked in Hayfield Bonus DK yarn. Rated as an intermediate level project, this design offers a satisfying challenge for knitters who are comfortable with basic shaping and are ready to explore stranded colourwork techniques. The pattern covers six sizes, making it a versatile wardrobe staple suitable for a wide range of figures.

What Is Being Made

The pattern produces a women's pullover sweater with set-in or shaped sleeves. It is a structured, fitted garment knitted in the round where appropriate and in flat pieces that are seamed together. The finished sweater features colourwork detailing worked across the body using three coordinating shades of Hayfield Bonus DK.

• To fit bust: 81, 86, 91, 97, 102, and 107 cm (32–42 in)
• Actual measurement: 85–112 cm (33½–44 in), providing a small amount of positive ease
• Full length: 58–66 cm (22¾–26 in) depending on size
• Sleeve length: 43–47 cm (17–18½ in), noted as adjustable to suit personal preference

Yarn and Materials

The sweater is knitted in Hayfield Bonus DK, a popular, affordable double knitting weight yarn known for its smooth, even texture and excellent stitch definition — qualities that make it particularly well suited to colourwork patterns. Three shades are used:

• Shade 790 (Colour A): the main shade, requiring 4–5 x 100g balls depending on size
• Shade 812 (Colour B): a contrast shade, requiring 1 x 100g ball across all sizes
• Shade 647 (Colour C): a second contrast shade, requiring 1 x 100g ball across all sizes

The pattern notes that yarn quantities are based on average requirements when the stated tension and yarn are used, so knitters should swatch carefully before beginning.

In addition to yarn, the following tools are required:

• 1 pair of 4mm (UK8 / USA6) knitting needles — for the main body and sleeves
• 1 pair of 3¼mm (UK10 / USA3) knitting needles — for ribbed welts and cuffs
• 1 x 4mm (UK8 / USA6) 80cm circular needle — if required, for example for neckband finishing
• Stitch holders — for holding live stitches during shaping

Tension

The stated tension is 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10cm (4 in) over stocking stitch on 4mm needles. The pattern emphasises that achieving the correct tension is essential to ensure the finished garment matches the stated measurements. Knitters are advised to swatch before beginning: if fewer stitches are produced, switch to a thinner needle; if more stitches result, switch to a thicker needle.

Techniques Used

This is an intermediate knitting pattern that draws on a range of techniques. Knitters will need to be comfortable with flat knitting (working back and forth in rows), basic garment shaping including increases and decreases, and the management of multiple yarn colours simultaneously.

• Stranded colourwork: The pattern uses two or more colours within the same row. The colour not currently in use is stranded loosely across the wrong side of the work to maintain the elasticity of the fabric. The pattern specifically instructs knitters to strand loosely to avoid puckering.
• Intarsia-style joining: Where stranding becomes difficult over longer stretches, the pattern advises using separate balls of yarn for each colour section. Colours are twisted around each other at joins to link sections and prevent holes forming.
• Yarn management: Knitters are instructed not to break off and rejoin yarns except where strictly necessary, helping to keep