Natalie - ladies cable jacket

Natalie Ladies Cable Jacket by Jennifer Lee

Garment Overview

The Natalie is a ladies cable jacket designed by Jennifer Lee, featuring a sophisticated plaited cable pattern throughout. This knitted garment combines classic construction techniques with elegant cable detailing, making it an ideal layering piece for everyday wear. The jacket showcases set-in sleeves and a round neckline, with a contemporary closure system using three press studs positioned at the left shoulder for easy fastening and a refined aesthetic.

Cable Pattern and Stitch Work

The signature feature of the Natalie jacket is its plaited cable pattern, which repeats over 12 rows. The cable stitches are strategically worked on only two rows within each 12-row repeat, creating an efficient yet visually striking textured design. This approach balances visual impact with manageable construction, making the pattern accessible to advanced knitters while maintaining the sophisticated appearance of traditional cable work. The cable pattern is worked consistently across the body and sleeves for a cohesive, coordinated look.

Sizing and Fit

The Natalie is available in four sizes: Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large. The bust measurements range from 80cm (31½ inches) for Size S to 110cm (43¼ inches) for Size XL, accommodating various body types. The garment measures between 89cm and 123cm across the chest, providing options for close-fitting or relaxed silhouettes depending on size selection. The length remains consistent across all sizes at approximately 57–60cm (22½–23½ inches), while sleeve length is a standard 43cm (17 inches) throughout the range.

Yarn and Materials

The Natalie requires 16 to 23 balls of yarn depending on size, using Cleckheaton Country 8ply yarn in 50g balls with a meterage of 96 meters per ball. The pattern specifies DK (Double Knit) weight yarn, which provides excellent stitch definition for cable work. Knitters will need a pair of 4.00mm knitting needles (UK size 8, US size 6) for construction, along with a cable needle for executing the cable stitches. Additional materials include two stitch holders for managing stitches during set-in sleeve shaping, a wool needle for seaming, and three press studs for the shoulder closure.

Tension and Gauge

Achieving the correct tension is essential for this project. The pattern specifies a gauge of 35 stitches and 30 rows over 10cm (4 inches) when working the cable pattern using 4.00mm needles. Maintaining this tension ensures that the finished garment matches the intended dimensions and that the cable pattern displays with proper definition and drape.

Construction Techniques

The Natalie employs several key knitting techniques suited to advanced knitters. Set-in sleeves require shaping at the armhole and sleeve cap, creating a tailored fit that follows the natural contours of the shoulder. The round neckline provides a classic, versatile finish. The plaited cable stitch is a decorative technique that creates the interlocking, rope-like texture characteristic of cable knitting. The press stud closure at the left shoulder offers a modern alternative to traditional button bands, simplifying the finishing process while maintaining a polished appearance. Assembly involves seaming the shoulder, side, and sleeve seams using a wool needle and mattress stitch or similar technique for invisible, professional-looking joins.

Skill Level

While the pattern carries an Advanced difficulty rating in the product attributes, the pattern itself is marked as Intermediate. This accessible rating reflects the manageable nature of the cable pattern, which requires only two rows of active cable work per 12-row repeat. Knitters should be comfortable with fundamental techniques including casting on and binding off, working stockinette stitch, executing cable stitches, increasing and decreasing for shaping, and seaming pieces together. Experience with set-in sleeve construction is beneficial, though the pattern provides guidance throughout.

Design Details

The Natalie exemplifies contemporary knitwear design with its balance of texture and wearability. The plaited cable pattern creates visual interest without overwhelming the silhouette, while the set-in sleeves ensure a refined, tailored appearance. The three-press-stud shoulder closure is both functional and decorative, adding a subtle design element that distinguishes this jacket from more traditional styles. The consistent cable pattern across body and sleeves creates a unified, professional aesthetic suitable for both casual and semi-formal occasions.