Cora Jacket

Cora Jacket by Martin Storey

What is Being Made

The Cora Jacket is an elegant, slightly cropped knitted jacket designed by Martin Storey. This refined piece features a simple silhouette enhanced by a distinctive wide lattice pattern cabled border that runs around all edges, including the collar and cuffs. The jacket front closure is secured with a kilt pin or brooch, which can be fastened either just below the collar or at the bust, offering styling versatility. Available in sizes Small through Extra Large to fit bust measurements from 82–87cm up to 112–117cm, this design combines classic tailoring with decorative cable work.

Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level knitting project employs cable knitting techniques to create the signature lattice pattern border that frames the jacket. The main body is worked in stockinette stitch, which provides a smooth, classic fabric base that contrasts beautifully with the textured cable detail. The construction method involves joining the front pieces using a kilt pin or brooch closure rather than traditional buttons or seaming, making this a distinctive design feature that adds both elegance and practicality to the garment.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch (st st) – forms the primary fabric of the jacket body
• Cable stitches – create the wide lattice pattern border around edges, collar, and cuffs
• Cr4R – cable cross stitch abbreviation referenced in the pattern

Materials and Tools

The Cora Jacket is worked in DK weight yarn, which provides a refined drape suitable for this elegant garment. The pattern recommends Rowan British Sheep Breeds DK in an undyed natural fiber from the Bluefaced Leicester sheep, supporting traditional British yarn production. An alternative option is Rowan Alpaca Soft DK, which offers a different fiber choice while maintaining the same weight category.

Knitting needles required:

• Pair of 3.75mm (US 5) knitting needles
• Pair of 4mm (US 6) knitting needles
• Circular 4mm (US 6) needle
• Cable needle for working cable stitches

Tension: 22 stitches and 30 rows to a 10cm (4 inch) square over stockinette stitch using 4mm (US 6) needles is required to achieve the correct finished measurements. Obtaining proper tension is essential for this garment to fit as designed.

Additional Details

This downloadable PDF pattern from Martin Storey's Aran Knits collection is classified as an intermediate difficulty project, making it suitable for knitters with some experience in cable work and garment construction. The design celebrates traditional British yarn heritage while delivering a timeless, sophisticated jacket that works equally well for everyday wear or special occasions.