Sirdar Second Stage Sweater Top Knitting Pattern

Sirdar Second Stage Sweater Design N° 10540

What Is Being Made

The Sirdar Second Stage Sweater is an intermediate-level knitted top designed for sizes UK 6-28 (US 2-24). This garment features a classic sweater construction with set-in sleeves and is available in six size ranges, from chest measurements of 32/34 inches up to 52/54 inches. The design showcases a two-colour knitting technique using complementary shades from the Sirdar Stories collection, specifically shade 808 Date Night paired with shade 833 Sandy Toes.

Techniques Used

This intermediate knitting project employs two-colour double knitting as its primary technique, allowing knitters to create patterned effects by working with multiple yarn shades simultaneously. The pattern utilizes set-in sleeve construction, which requires shaping at the armhole and sleeve cap for a fitted, professional finish. Knitters will work flat pieces on straight needles before assembling the garment through seaming. The design incorporates ribbed edgings at the cuffs, hem, and neckline, which are worked on smaller needles to create elasticated finishes that help the garment retain its shape.

Stitches Used

The sweater primarily utilizes stocking stitch (also called stockinette stitch), the fundamental double knitting stitch that creates a smooth, classic fabric surface. Knit and purl ribbing is used for all edgings—the sleeve cuffs, garment hem, and neckline—to provide stretch and structure. The two-colour patterning is achieved through careful colour work techniques within the double knitting fabric, creating visual interest while maintaining the integrity of the knit structure.

Materials Required

This pattern is designed specifically for Sirdar Stories Double Knitting yarn, a cotton-rich acrylic blend measuring 50g per ball. The yarn selection reflects Sirdar's commitment to creating lighter, shape-retaining garments suitable for various seasons. Yarn quantities vary by size: smaller sizes (UK 6-8) require 5 balls each of Yarn A and Yarn B, while larger sizes (UK 26-28) require 8 balls of Yarn A and 7 balls of Yarn B.

Knitting needles required include:

• One pair of 4mm needles (UK size 8, US size 6) for the main fabric
• One pair of 3¼mm needles (UK size 10, US size 3) for ribbed edgings
• One pair of 3¼mm double-pointed needles (UK size 10, US size 3) for neckline finishing

Design Heritage and Quality Assurance

Sirdar, established in West Yorkshire in 1880, is a British yarn company with generations of hand knitting heritage. The company's commitment to pattern quality is evident in their triple-check guarantee process, ensuring every Sirdar pattern works successfully when paired with recommended Sirdar yarns. This design represents the brand's approach to combining classic knitting techniques with contemporary colour options from their seasonal collections.

Sizing and Finished Measurements

The sweater is available across six size ranges with the following finished chest measurements: 32/34 inches, 36/38 inches, 40/42 inches, 44/46 inches, 48/50 inches, and 52/54 inches. Full length ranges from 22 inches in the smallest size to 26 inches in the largest size, while sleeve length remains consistent at approximately 18-19 inches across all sizes, making this design suitable for varied body types and proportions.