Sweater in Sirdar No.1 Aran Stonewash - 8268 - Downloadable PDF

Sirdar No.1 Aran Stonewash Sweater – Knitting Pattern 8268 (Downloadable PDF)

This intermediate-level knitting pattern from Sirdar (pattern number 8268) provides full instructions for a classic cable-panel sweater worked in Sirdar No.1 Aran Stonewashed yarn. The design is notable for its generous size range, covering bust sizes from 81/86 cm (32/34 in) up to 132/137 cm (52/54 in), making it an inclusive and versatile choice for a wide range of knitters. The pattern is delivered as a downloadable PDF, so you can get started right away.

About the Garment

The pattern produces a relaxed-fit pullover sweater with set-in or drop-shoulder-style sleeves. The silhouette is generously sized, with actual finished bust measurements ranging from 110 cm (43¼ in) to 161 cm (63½ in), offering comfortable ease across all sizes. Full lengths range from approximately 55 cm (21¾ in) to 68 cm (26¾ in) depending on the size chosen, and sleeve lengths run from 42 cm to 44 cm (16½ in to 17¼ in) and are noted as adjustable, giving knitters the flexibility to customise the fit.

The sweater is constructed from the top down, as indicated by the back section beginning worked from the top downward. This construction method is popular among knitters because it allows for easy length adjustments and the ability to try the garment on as you go, reducing the need for seaming and making fit easier to achieve.

Techniques and Construction

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it well suited to knitters who are comfortable with the basics and ready to develop their skills further. The key techniques involved include:

• Cable knitting – the centrepiece of this design, using a cable needle to cross groups of stitches and create textured, rope-like panels across the fabric
• C8B (Cable 8 Back) – slip 4 stitches to a cable needle held at the back, knit 4, then knit 4 from the cable needle, creating a right-leaning cable twist
• C8F (Cable 8 Front) – slip 4 stitches to a cable needle held at the front, knit 4, then knit 4 from the cable needle, creating a left-leaning cable twist
• Top-down construction – the back piece is worked from the top downward, a method that offers flexibility and ease of fitting
• M1 increase – picking up the loop between the last and next stitch and working into the back of it to create a neat, almost invisible increase
• Shaping techniques including decreasing, increasing, and working with a stitch holder for neck shaping

Stitches Used

The sweater combines several stitch types to create its structured, textured appearance:

• Stocking stitch – the smooth, classic knit-on-right-side, purl-on-wrong-side fabric used for the main body sections
• Cable panel – a repeating pattern of 8-stitch cables worked using C8B and C8F crossings, providing the garment's signature texture and visual interest
• Ribbing or border stitches – implied by the use of smaller 4mm needles alongside the main 5mm needles, typically used for cuffs, hems, and neckbands to create a neat, elasticated edge
• Yarn forward, yarn over needle, and yarn round needle – directional yarn movements referenced in the abbreviations, used for shaping and stitch construction throughout the pattern

Materials Required

The pattern is designed specifically for Sirdar No.1 Aran Stonewashed yarn in shade 807 (colourway reference F232). This is an aran weight yarn, which knits up to a satisfying fabric with good stitch definition — ideal for showcasing cable work. The number of 100g balls required varies by size: