Cardigan & Pullover Knitting Pattern

Cardigan and Pullover in King Cole Merino Blend DK

What is Being Made

This pattern provides instructions for knitting both a cardigan and a pullover sweater in King Cole Merino Blend DK yarn. The designs are available in sizes ranging from 81 to 107 cm (32 to 42 inches), making them suitable for a wide range of body measurements. Both garments feature coordinated styling and can be created from the same pattern leaflet, offering versatility for knitters who want to make either a button-front cardigan or a crew-neck pullover.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project incorporates several key techniques that add visual interest and complexity to the finished garments. The patterns utilize motif patterning, which is worked from a chart and repeated throughout the garment pieces. Shaping is achieved through strategic increases and decreases, particularly for raglan armhole construction, which creates a classic fitted silhouette. The pattern also employs contrast yarn work, allowing knitters to introduce multiple colors into their design. Tension control is emphasized as essential before beginning the project, with instructions to adjust needle sizes if needed to achieve the specified gauge.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K) and Purl (P) stitches: The foundational stitches that form the basis of the fabric
• Stocking stitch (st-st): The primary fabric texture, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side
• Reversed stocking stitch (rev st-st): The inverse of stocking stitch, with purl showing on the right side
• Garter stitch (gst): Created by knitting every row, providing a textured, reversible fabric
• Ribbed stitching: Used for the cuffs and lower edges, created by alternating knit and purl stitches in a vertical pattern to provide stretch and shape retention
• Motif pattern: A 16-row repeating pattern worked from a chart (Chart A) that creates decorative patterning across the garment
• Decreases: Including purl two together (P2tog) and pass slipped stitch over (psso) for shaping
• Yarn overs (yrn, yfwd): Used to create decorative elements within the motif pattern

Materials

This pattern is designed for King Cole Merino Blend DK yarn, a double knit weight that provides a balanced fabric suitable for wearable garments. The yarn weight allows for detailed stitch definition while maintaining good drape. Knitters will need 4mm needles for the main fabric, with 3.75mm needles used for the ribbed edgings to create a tighter, more elastic finish. The pattern accommodates main yarn (M) and contrast yarns (CA, CB, CC), enabling color work throughout the design. The specified tension is 22 stitches and 24 rows to 10 centimeters (4 inches) over the motif pattern when worked on 4mm needles, which is critical for achieving the correct finished measurements.