Connie - Cable and Rib Jacket

Connie Cable and Rib Jacket by Jennifer Lee

Garment Overview

Connie is a ladies knitted jacket designed by Jennifer Lee, featuring sophisticated shaping and classic construction techniques. This intermediate-level cardigan combines textured cable patterning with ribbed detailing to create a refined, wearable piece. The jacket is available in four sizes ranging from Small to Extra Large, with finished bust measurements from 35½ inches to 47¼ inches and an approximate length of 22 to 23¼ inches.

Construction and Design Features

The Connie jacket showcases professional garment construction with several key structural elements:

• Set-in sleeves that provide a tailored, fitted appearance
• Side shaping throughout the body for a contoured silhouette
• Collar detail at the neckline
• Cable patterned body worked in a four-row repeat for visual interest and texture
• Ribbed bodice that provides structure and a smooth finish

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate knitting project employs cable knitting as its primary decorative technique. The four-row cable pattern forms the main body of the jacket, creating dimensional texture throughout. The cable work is executed using the C4B stitch (slip next 2 stitches onto cable needle and leave at back of work, knit 2, then knit 2 from cable needle), which produces classic twisted rope effects. Ribbed stitching is used strategically on the bodice to add elasticity and definition. The combination of cables and ribs requires intermediate-level skill and understanding of stitch manipulation and pattern reading.

Yarn and Materials

Connie is designed to be worked in DK weight yarn, specifically Cleckheaton Country 8ply. The pattern requires 16 balls for Size Small, increasing to 18, 20, or 22 balls for Medium, Large, and Extra Large respectively. Each ball contains 50 grams and measures 96 meters, providing approximately 1,536 to 2,112 meters of yarn depending on size selected.

Needles and Equipment

The jacket is knitted using 4.00mm knitting needles (UK size 8, US size 6). Additional equipment required includes a cable needle for executing the cable stitches, three safety pins for holding stitches during construction, and a wool needle for sewing seams. Three buttons are needed to complete the cardigan closure.

Tension and Sizing

Achieving correct tension is essential for this project. The pattern specifies a tension of 29 stitches and 29 rows to 10 centimeters (4 inches) measured over the cable pattern using 4.00mm needles. Accurate tension ensures the finished garment meets the intended measurements and drapes properly. Sleeve length remains consistent at approximately 43 centimeters (17 inches) across all sizes, while body length varies slightly from 56 to 59 centimeters to accommodate different bust sizes.

Skill Level and Pattern Complexity

Rated as intermediate difficulty, the Connie jacket is suitable for knitters with experience in basic techniques who are ready to tackle cable work and garment shaping. The pattern combines multiple skill elements including cable stitches, side shaping, set-in sleeve construction, and finishing techniques such as seaming and button attachment. The four-row cable repeat provides rhythm and manageability while creating sophisticated visual results.