Jacket & Waistcoat in King Cole Cottonsmooth DK - 5748pdf - Downloadable PDF

Jacket & Waistcoat in King Cole Cottonsmooth DK

What is Being Made

This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for knitting a jacket and matching waistcoat using King Cole Cottonsmooth DK yarn. The pattern offers multiple size options, ranging from 81cm to 127cm (32 to 50 inches) in finished chest measurement, making it suitable for a wide range of body sizes. Both garments are designed to be knitted as coordinating pieces that can be worn together or separately.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project incorporates several fundamental and decorative techniques. The primary construction method uses stocking stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric ideal for structured garments like jackets and waistcoats. The pattern also features cable knitting, with a cable panel measuring approximately 22cm (8¾ inches) across, adding visual interest and texture to the finished pieces. Additionally, the pattern employs 2x2 ribbing, a stretchy knit-purl combination used for cuffs, hems, and fitted areas to provide elasticity and a neat finish.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (K) – the fundamental stitch creating the primary fabric
• Purl stitch (P) – used in combination with knit stitches for textured sections and ribbing
• 2x2 Ribbing – alternating knit and purl stitches in a two-stitch pattern for elastic edges
• Cable stitch (C4F) – created by slipping stitches onto a cable needle, holding them to the front, and crossing them over subsequent stitches to form raised, twisted rope-like textures
• Increase stitches (inc) – for shaping the garment pieces
• Decrease stitches (dec) – for fitting and shaping shoulders and armholes
• Slip stitch (s1) – used in various techniques including cable work

Materials Required

This pattern is designed to be worked with King Cole Cottonsmooth DK yarn, a double knit weight that provides excellent stitch definition and drape suitable for tailored garments. The recommended needles are 4mm knitting needles, or the size required to achieve the correct tension. The pattern specifies a working tension of 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10cm (4 inches) over stocking stitch, which is essential to achieve the correct finished garment measurements.

Pattern Details

The pattern includes comprehensive abbreviations and special instructions to guide knitters through the construction process. The cable panel, a prominent design feature, spans 64 stitches in width and creates a sophisticated textured element throughout the jacket and waistcoat. The use of right side (rs) and wrong side (ws) terminology indicates that shaping and pattern placement are carefully considered for a professional appearance. This intermediate-level project is suitable for knitters with experience in basic techniques who are ready to tackle cable work and garment construction with multiple pieces and sizing options.