Sirdar 8132 Cardigans Knitting Pattern

Sirdar 8132 Summer Linen DK Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Sirdar 8132 is a knitted cardigan pattern designed for summer wear, available in six sizes ranging from 61/66 cm (24/26 inches) to 112/117 cm (44/46 inches) chest/bust measurements. This garment features a classic cardigan silhouette with button front closure, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for warm weather.

Craft and Construction Method

This cardigan is created using the knitting craft and is worked using a bottom-up construction method, meaning the garment is knitted starting from the lower edge and progressing upward. The pattern employs seamed construction, where individual pieces are knitted separately and then joined together. The pieces are worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for easy shaping and pattern work.

Techniques Used

The Sirdar 8132 incorporates lace techniques throughout the design, adding visual interest and creating an open, airy fabric ideal for summer garments. The pattern includes various shaping techniques such as decreasing (using methods like k2tog and pass slipped stitch over) and increasing (using the kfb method—knit into front and back of stitch). Raglan shaping is featured, which creates diagonal seams from the underarm to the neckline for a flattering fit.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch used in this cardigan is stocking stitch (also called stockinette stitch), which creates a smooth, classic fabric. The lace elements are created through yarn overs and strategic decreases that form decorative holes and patterns. The pattern also uses fundamental knitting stitches including:

• Knit (k) and purl (p) stitches for basic fabric construction
• Yarn overs (y3rn and y4rn) for creating lace openings and texture
• Decreases including k2tog (knit two together) and psso (pass slipped stitch over) for shaping
• Slip stitches (s1) for various shaping and edge techniques
• Kfb (knit into front and back) for increases

Materials and Tools

The Sirdar 8132 cardigan is designed to be knitted in Sirdar Summer Linen DK yarn, available in shades 202 or 204. The yarn requirements vary by size, ranging from 5 balls (50g each) for the smallest size to 13 balls for the largest size. The pattern notes that this cardigan is also suitable for alternative DK-weight yarns including Country Style DK, Crofter DK, Soukie DK, Beachcomber DK, Harrap Tweed DK, Amalfi DK, Cotton DK, Cotton Prints DK, Toscana DK, Dapple DK, and Sirdar No.1, though yarn amounts may vary depending on the specific yarn chosen.

Two pairs of knitting needles are required: a pair of 4mm (UK8 – USA6) needles for the main fabric and a pair of 3¼mm (UK10 – USA3) needles for ribbed edges and cuffs. The pattern also calls for 5 to 8 buttons depending on size, which serve as the closure for the front cardigan opening.

Tension and Gauge

The pattern specifies a tension of 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10cm (4 inches) over stocking stitch using 4mm needles. Achieving the correct tension is emphasized as essential for success, as it ensures the finished garment will match the intended measurements. Knitters are advised to adjust needle size if their tension differs—using a thinner needle if they have more stitches than required, or a thicker needle if they have fewer stitches.

Sizing and Finished Measurements

The cardigan is available in six sizes with the following actual finished measurements:

• Size 1: 71 cm (28 inches) chest, approximately 40 cm (15¾ inches) full length, 33 cm (13 inches) sleeve length
• Size 2: