Two Easy Cardigans in Stylecraft Chromatic - Downloadable PDF

Two Easy Cardigans in Stylecraft Chromatic – Knitting Pattern Summary

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern from Stylecraft presents two distinct cardigan designs worked in Stylecraft Chromatic DK yarn. Both designs are classified as advanced beginner level, making them an ideal step up for knitters who have mastered the basics and are ready to tackle shaped garments with a little more structure. The pattern includes a generous size range, covering bust measurements from 81/86 cm (32/34 in) through to 122/127 cm (48/50 in), with five sizes in total — a thoughtful inclusion of larger sizes that makes this pattern accessible to a wide range of knitters.

About Stylecraft Chromatic DK

Both cardigans are designed specifically for Stylecraft Chromatic, a DK weight yarn. Chromatic is known for its carefully graduated colour sequences, which create a naturally variegated, tonal effect as you knit — without the need for complex colourwork techniques. This means the yarn itself does much of the decorative work, allowing the clean, classic construction of each cardigan to shine. DK weight yarn is a versatile, medium-light weight that knits up at a relatively quick pace while still producing a fabric with good stitch definition.

Needles

The pattern calls for 3.25 mm needles and 4 mm needles. The smaller needle size is used for the initial ribbed or textured border sections, while the larger needle size is used for the main body fabric. This two-needle approach is standard practice in garment knitting and helps achieve a neat, firm edge that transitions smoothly into the body of the cardigan.

Design One: V Neck Cardigan

The first design featured in this pattern is a V Neck Cardigan. This is a timeless, flattering silhouette that suits a wide range of body shapes and can be styled casually or dressed up depending on the occasion. The V neckline is a classic choice that elongates the neck and draws the eye downward, making it a perennially popular option in knitwear design.

Construction and Techniques

The Back of the V Neck Cardigan begins by casting on with 3.25 mm needles, with stitch counts varying by size — for example, 105 stitches for the smallest size through to 145 stitches for the largest. An initial section of 12 rows in garter stitch (knit every row) is worked on the smaller needles to create a firm, non-curling lower border. The knitter then changes to 4 mm needles for the main body.

A textured stitch pattern is introduced on the main body. The pattern row reads: K5, * p1, (k1, p1) twice, k5; repeat from * to end of row, which creates a subtle combination of knit and purl stitches that adds visual interest and texture to the fabric without being overly complex. This type of stitch pattern is well within reach of an advanced beginner and adds a professional finish to the finished garment.

Measurements

• To Fit Bust: 81/86 cm, 91/97 cm, 102/107 cm, 112/117 cm, 122/127 cm (32/34 in to 48/50 in)
• Actual Measurement: 95 cm, 105 cm, 114 cm, 123 cm, 132 cm
• Full Length: 58 cm, 60 cm, 64 cm, 67 cm, 70 cm (approximately 22¾ in to 27½ in)

The actual measurements include a degree of positive ease over the stated bust sizes, which is typical for a relaxed-fit cardigan. This ease ensures comfortable wear over other garments and gives the finished piece a flattering, unfussy drape.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Garter stitch (knit every row) — used for the lower border section
• Knit and purl combination stitch pattern — used for the main body, creating texture and definition
• Needle changes — transitioning from 3.25 mm to 4 mm