Simple Jacket

Simple Jacket by Sian Brown

What is Being Made

The Simple Jacket is a beginner-friendly cardigan pattern designed by Sian Brown. This knitted jacket is available in eight sizes, ranging from size 12 to size 26, with bust measurements from 86cm (34 inches) to 122cm (48 inches). The finished garment features a classic cardigan silhouette with set-in sleeves and a structured body, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for beginners. The construction begins with casting on stitches and uses basic shaping methods throughout. Decreasing is achieved through the skpo (slip one, knit one, pass slipped stitch over) technique and k2tog (knit two together) decreases, which are strategically placed to create fitted shaping at the sides of the garment. The pattern also incorporates make one stitch (m1) increases for shaping where needed. The straightforward construction method makes this an ideal project for knitters developing their skills in garment shaping and sizing.

Stitches Used

The Simple Jacket is constructed primarily using stocking stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a neat appearance. Stocking stitch is achieved by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side. The pattern begins with garter stitch edging (created by knitting every row), which provides a neat, textured border at the lower edge of the garment. These fundamental stitches combine to create a timeless, professional finish suitable for a beginner-level project.

Materials and Specifications

This pattern requires Colinette Tagliatelli yarn in the shade Mist. The yarn weight is chunky, with yardage requirements varying by size: 5 hanks for the smallest sizes (12-14), increasing to 8 hanks for the largest size (26), with each hank weighing 100 grams. Two pairs of needles are required: size 7mm needles for the ribbed edging sections and size 8mm needles for the main body of the garment. The pattern specifies a tension of 11 stitches and 20 rows over a 10 x 10 centimeter square worked in stocking stitch using the 8mm needles, ensuring proper fit and drape across all size options.

Garment Specifications

• Finished Bust Measurements: Range from 94cm (37 inches) for size 12 to 136cm (53½ inches) for size 26
• Length: Varies from 63cm (24¾ inches) to 77cm (30¼ inches) depending on size
• Sleeve Length: Ranges from 43cm (17 inches) to 46cm (18 inches) across all sizes
• Difficulty Level: Beginner, making it accessible to knitters new to garment construction