Mashed-up Classics Coat

Mashed-up Classics Coat by Boadicea Binnerts

What Is Being Made

The Mashed-up Classics Coat is an advanced-level women's cardigan jacket designed by independent designer Boadicea Binnerts under the boknits design label. This is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern available in seven sizes ranging from XS to 3X, with finished chest measurements from 36 to 60 inches and lengths from 32 to 35 inches. The garment features a unique reversible design element—the interior loops of yarn are intentionally as aesthetically pleasing as the exterior, allowing the coat to be worn inside out.

Design and Construction Techniques

The Mashed-up Classics Coat employs innovative construction methods that eliminate traditional seaming. The garment is worked in the round from the bottom up, a technique that creates seamless fabric and ensures consistent stitch definition throughout. The design incorporates steeks—a traditional Fair Isle technique where stitches are cast on to create openings for the front, armholes, and neckline. Rather than sewing seams after cutting steeks, the fronts feature picked-up stitches that create a sturdy double button band, providing both structural integrity and a refined finish. The sleeves are similarly picked up directly from the steeked sleeve openings, maintaining the seamless construction philosophy throughout the entire garment.

Stitch Patterns and Motifs

The Mashed-up Classics Coat plays with classic Fair Isle motifs in an unconventional manner. The design juxtaposes traditional houndstooth patterns with argyle, gingham, and plain stripes, creating visual interest through unexpected pattern combinations. The name reflects this playful approach to classic knitting techniques—the stitches themselves are traditional, but their application and arrangement are distinctly modern and creative. All stitch work is executed in the round, maintaining consistent tension and pattern clarity.

Yarn and Needles

This pattern is designed for chunky-weight yarn, which creates a garment with substantial drape and relatively quick knitting progress despite the advanced techniques involved. The recommended gauge is 14 stitches and 17 rows over 4 inches in pattern stitch. Knitters will need 6mm circular needles in 32-inch length—the designer specifies using Addi Turbos, a premium needle brand known for smooth surfaces and durability. A 4mm crochet hook is also required, likely for securing steeks or finishing edges.

Skill Level and Suitability

Rated as an advanced knitting project, the Mashed-up Classics Coat is best suited for experienced knitters comfortable with Fair Isle colorwork, steek construction, and picking up stitches. The seamless, bottom-up construction and the innovative use of classic motifs make this an engaging project for knitters seeking to expand their technical repertoire. The reversible design concept adds an extra layer of design sophistication, rewarding careful attention to yarn tension and stitch consistency on both sides of the fabric.