Jacket in Hayfield Bonus DK - 8289 - Downloadable PDF

Hayfield Bonus DK Jacket Knitting Pattern 8289 – Detailed Summary

This intermediate-level knitting pattern (pattern number 8289) from Hayfield provides full instructions for a classic, structured jacket worked in Hayfield Bonus DK yarn. The design features a left front, right front, back, and sleeves, making it a satisfying project for knitters who are comfortable with shaping and garment construction. The pattern is available as a downloadable PDF, making it immediately accessible after purchase.

Sizing and Fit

The pattern covers an impressive six sizes, designed to fit bust measurements from 81/86 cm (32/34 in) up to 132/137 cm (52/54 in). The actual finished measurements range from 94 cm (37 in) to 145 cm (57¼ in), providing a comfortable, relaxed fit across all sizes. Full length ranges from 75 cm (29½ in) to 91 cm (36 in), and sleeve length runs from approximately 46 cm (18 in) to 49 cm (19¼ in), noted as adjustable to suit personal preference.

Materials Required

Yarn

• Yarn: Hayfield Bonus DK, shade 646 (colour code F013)
• Ball quantities: 5 to 8 x 100g balls depending on size selected
• The DK (double knitting) weight yarn ensures the finished jacket has a smooth, even fabric with excellent stitch definition

Needles and Notions

• 1 pair of 4mm knitting needles (UK 8 / USA 6) – used for the main body fabric
• 1 pair of 3¼mm knitting needles (UK 10 / USA 3) – used for ribbed or neater cast-on sections
• 1 x Sirdar Elegant Button, code B5611-0305 – a single decorative button for fastening

Tension

The stated tension is 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 in) measured over stocking stitch on 4mm needles. As with all garment knitting, achieving the correct tension is essential. The pattern advises that if you have fewer stitches than stated, switch to a thinner needle; if you have more stitches, use a thicker needle. Always knit a tension swatch before beginning.

Stitches and Techniques Used

Primary Stitches

• Stocking stitch (st-st): The main fabric of the jacket is worked entirely in stocking stitch – knit on right side rows, purl on wrong side rows. This creates a smooth, classic fabric that is ideal for a tailored jacket silhouette.
• Garter stitch (g-st): Referenced within the pattern for specific sections, garter stitch (knit every row) adds texture and stability, often used at edges or borders to prevent curling.
• Cast-on using the thumb method: The pattern specifies the thumb method cast-on, which creates a firm, elastic edge well-suited to garment hems.

Shaping Techniques

• Shoulder shaping: Shoulders are shaped by casting off stitches at the beginning of successive rows, creating a neat, angled shoulder seam. For example, in the largest sizes, stitches are cast off in two stages across consecutive rows before the remaining back neck stitches are cast off.
• Increasing (inc): Used to shape the sleeves and body for a tailored fit.
• Working together (tog): Decreases are worked by knitting or purling stitches together to create smooth, gradual shaping at armholes and other key points.

Garment Construction

• The jacket is knitted in separate pieces – Back, Left Front, and additional sections as detailed in the full PDF – then seamed together
• Smaller