Sirdar 8134 Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Sirdar 8134 Summer Linen DK Cardigan

What is Being Made

The Sirdar 8134 is a classic summer cardigan pattern designed for knitters of all sizes, with six different measurements to fit bust sizes from 81/86 cm (32/34 inches) up to 132/137 cm (52/54 inches). This downloadable PDF pattern includes a button-front cardigan with adjustable sleeve length, making it a versatile wardrobe piece suitable for warm weather wear. The finished cardigan features a full length measured from the back of neck, ranging from 55 cm (21¾ inches) in the smallest size to 68 cm (26¾ inches) in the largest size.

Techniques Used

This cardigan is constructed using bottom-up knitting methodology, meaning the garment is worked from the lower edge upward. The pattern employs seamed construction, with pieces worked flat on straight needles and then sewn together to create the finished garment. The design incorporates lace stitch patterns alongside traditional stocking stitch, adding visual interest and texture to the summer-appropriate design. The lace elements contribute to the breathable, lightweight aesthetic ideal for warm-weather layering.

Stitches Used

The primary stitches featured in this pattern include:

• Stocking stitch – the foundational stitch used throughout much of the cardigan for a smooth, classic appearance
• Lace pattern – incorporated into the design to create openwork sections that enhance breathability
• Knit and purl stitches – the basic building blocks used in combination to create texture and pattern definition
• Decreases – including p2tog (purl two together) for shaping the garment
• Yarn forward (yfwd) – used to create the lace eyelets characteristic of lace knitting
• Make one (M1) – a stitch increase worked by picking up the loop between stitches and knitting into the back of the loop for invisible increases

Materials and Needles

This pattern is designed to be worked in Sirdar Summer Linen DK yarn in shade 204. The yarn quantities required vary by size, ranging from 9 balls (50g each) for the smallest size to 16 balls for the largest size. The pattern specifies that the yarn is suitable for substitution with several other DK-weight options, including Country Style DK, Crofter DK, Soukie DK, Harrap Tweed DK, Amalfi DK, Cotton DK, Cotton Prints DK, Toscana DK, Dapple DK, and Sirdar No. 1 DK, though yarn amounts may vary depending on the substitute chosen.

Two pairs of knitting needles are required: 4mm (UK8 – USA6) needles for working the main fabric and 3¼mm (UK10 – USA3) needles for ribbing and edge stitches. The pattern also requires 5 buttons for the front closure. The working tension is specified as 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10cm (4 inches) over stocking stitch and lace pattern on 4mm needles, making tension checking essential before beginning the project to ensure the finished cardigan achieves the correct measurements.