Jacket and Waistcoat in Sirdar Plushtweed - 7873- Downloadable PDF

Jacket and Waistcoat in Sirdar Plushtweed 7873

What is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern includes instructions for creating two complementary garments: a structured jacket and a coordinating waistcoat, both crafted from Sirdar Plushtweed yarn. The pattern accommodates a comprehensive range of sizes, from 81/86 cm (32/34 in) bust measurement up to 132/137 cm (52/54 in), making it accessible for various body types and fit preferences. The jacket features an adjustable sleeve length and includes a single button closure, while the waistcoat offers a sleeveless layering option that can be worn independently or under the jacket for added warmth and dimension.

Garment Specifications

Jacket: The jacket is designed with a full length ranging from 60 cm (23¾ in) in the smallest size to 73 cm (28¾ in) in the largest size. Actual measurements across the bust range from approximately 90 cm (35½ in) to 145 cm (57¼ in), providing comfortable ease for layering. Sleeve length is adjustable and generally measures between 46 to 48 cm (18 to 19 in) depending on size.

Waistcoat: The waistcoat provides a shorter silhouette, with full length measurements ranging from 50 cm (19¾ in) to 63 cm (24¾ in) across the size range. This sleeveless design offers versatility as both a standalone piece and as a layering garment under the jacket.

Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level knitting project employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for crafters with some experience. The primary construction method uses stocking stitch, a classic knit fabric created by alternating knit and purl rows to produce a smooth, uniform surface on the right side. The pattern requires attention to tension and shaping to achieve proper fit across the multiple size options provided.

Stitches Used

• Stocking Stitch: The main fabric stitch throughout both garments, creating the characteristic smooth texture and drape of the finished pieces
• Additional shaping stitches and edge treatments as specified in the full pattern instructions

Materials and Yarn Requirements

Both garments are designed to be worked in Sirdar Plushtweed, a yarn specifically chosen for its texture and wearability in structured garments.

Jacket: Requires Sirdar Plushtweed shade 250 in quantities ranging from 6 to 10 balls of 100g each, depending on the size selected. Smaller sizes (81/86 cm) require 6 balls, while the largest size (132/137 cm) requires 10 balls.

Waistcoat: Requires Sirdar Plushtweed shade 252 in quantities ranging from 3 to 6 balls of 100g each. The smallest size uses 3 balls, while the largest requires 6 balls. The different shade number allows for coordinated but distinct color options between the two pieces.

Needles and Notions: One pair of 6½mm (UK size 3 / USA size 10.5) knitting needles is required to achieve the specified tension. One button is needed for the jacket closure.

Tension and Gauge

Achieving the correct tension is essential for proper fit and garment construction. The pattern specifies a tension of 8 stitches and 14 rows to 10 cm (4 in) when working stocking stitch on 6½mm needles. Crafters should knit a tension swatch before beginning the project and adjust needle size as necessary to match this gauge, as variations in tension will directly affect the final measurements of both the jacket and waistcoat.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic stitches and simple garment construction but may still be developing skills in shaping, sizing, and working with multiple size options. The varied yarn weight and need for precise tension control add to the intermediate classification.