Cable Yoke Jacket

Cable Yoke Jacket by Kyoko Nakayoshi

What is Being Made

The Cable Yoke Jacket is a structured cardigan-style jacket designed by Kyoko Nakayoshi in Spring 2013. This garment features a distinctive cable-knit yoke detail and is engineered for outdoor warmth while maintaining freedom of movement. The design includes a hood for additional protection, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for transitional seasons.

Craft and Primary Technique

This is an advanced-level knitting project that combines multiple knitting techniques to create a cohesive garment. The construction method uses top-down yoke shaping, which allows for seamless integration of the cable pattern into the upper body. The jacket is worked primarily in the round using circular needles, a technique that minimizes seaming and creates a more polished finished garment.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The primary stitch structure is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric base. The defining feature of this design is the cable knit pattern worked into the yoke section, adding textural interest and visual depth to the upper body and shoulders. The pattern also incorporates garter stitch edging for a defined, structured border. These stitch combinations require intermediate to advanced skill in cable manipulation and yoke construction.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The pattern calls for Jamieson's of Shetland Marl, a chunky-weight yarn composed of 100% pure Shetland wool. Each 100g ball yields 120 meters (131 yards), and the pattern requires 9 to 11 balls depending on size selection (ranging from size 8-10 through 24-26).

Needle requirements include:

• 6mm (UK 4/US 10) circular needles (100cm length) for working the yoke, body, and edges
• 5.5mm (UK 5/US 9) circular needles (minimum 120cm length) for working the garter stitch edging
• Double-pointed needles (DPNs) for sleeves, or alternatively, the Magic Loop method may be used with circular needles to avoid DPNs entirely

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a tension of 15 stitches and 20 rows to 10cm over stockinette stitch using 6mm needles. Achieving correct gauge is essential for proper fit, and knitters are advised to adjust needle sizes if necessary to match the specified tension. The jacket is available in five size ranges, from 32-34 inches (size 8-10) through 48-50 inches (size 24-26), accommodating a wide range of body measurements.