Jacket in Sirdar Smudge - 7871- Downloadable PDF

Sirdar Smudge Jacket Knitting Pattern 7871 – Sizes 32/34 to 52/54 in

Pattern 7871 from Sirdar is a downloadable PDF knitting pattern for a classic knitted jacket worked in Sirdar Smudge yarn. Designed to suit a wide range of body types, this pattern generously includes six sizes ranging from a 32/34 inch bust up to a 52/54 inch bust (81/86 cm to 132/137 cm), making it an inclusive and versatile choice for knitters of varying builds. The actual finished garment measurements range from 98 cm (38½ in) to 149 cm (58¾ in) across the chest, providing a comfortable, relaxed fit.

About the Garment

This is a full-length jacket with set-in or structured sleeves, finished with 3 buttons as a front fastening. The full length of the jacket ranges from 72 cm (28¼ in) to 85 cm (33½ in) depending on size, making it a longer, more substantial outerwear piece rather than a short cardigan. The sleeve length is adjustable and measures approximately 44–46 cm (17¼–18 in) across sizes, giving knitters the flexibility to customise the fit to their arm length. The combination of a generous body length and adjustable sleeves makes this jacket a practical and stylish wardrobe addition suitable for cooler seasons.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern is written specifically for Sirdar Smudge yarn in shade F211 007. Sirdar Smudge is a characterful, textured yarn that gives knitted fabrics a soft, tactile, and visually interesting finish — the "smudge" effect in the yarn creates subtle colour blending and depth without requiring complex colourwork techniques from the knitter. This makes it an excellent choice for straightforward stitch patterns where the yarn itself provides the decorative interest.

• Yarn required: 7 to 11 x 100g balls of Sirdar Smudge shade F211 007, depending on size
• Smallest sizes (32/34–36/38): 7 balls
• Mid sizes (40/42–44/46): 8–9 balls
• Larger sizes (48/50–52/54): 10–11 balls
• Needles: 1 pair of 6mm (UK4 / USA10) knitting needles and 1 pair of 5mm (UK6 / USA8) knitting needles
• Notions: Stitch holders and 3 buttons

The two needle sizes are typical of garment knitting patterns where a smaller needle is used for ribbing or border sections to create a neater, firmer edge, while the larger needle is used for the main body fabric to achieve the correct tension and a softer drape.

Tension and Stitch Information

The stated tension for this pattern is 10 stitches and 17 rows to 10 cm (4 in) measured over stocking stitch on 6mm needles. The pattern emphasises that achieving the correct tension is essential — knitters are advised to check their tension swatch carefully before beginning, and to adjust needle size accordingly. If fewer stitches are achieved, a thinner needle should be used; if more stitches are achieved, a thicker needle is required.

Techniques and Stitches Used

As an intermediate-level knitting pattern, this jacket is suitable for knitters who are comfortable with standard garment construction and shaping techniques. The primary stitch used throughout the body of the jacket is stocking stitch (also known as stockinette stitch), which is created by knitting on right-side rows and purling on wrong-side rows. This produces the smooth, classic fabric surface that allows the texture and colour character of the Sirdar Smudge yarn to show to its best advantage.

• Stocking stitch – used for the main body and sleeves
• Rib stitch –