Debbie Bliss Arden Jacket Knitting Pattern

Debbie Bliss Arden Jacket

What is Being Made

The Debbie Bliss Arden Jacket is a knitted cardigan designed for intermediate-level knitters. This garment is worked as a structured jacket with set-in sleeves and a tailored fit. The pattern provides instructions for three sizes, fitting bust measurements from 81–86 cm (32–34 in) through to 102–107 cm (40–42 in). The finished jacket offers a width across the back ranging from 50 cm (19 1/4 in) in the smallest size to 62 cm (24 1/2 in) in the largest, with lengths to shoulder varying from 58 cm (22 3/4 in) to 64 cm (25 1/4 in). Sleeve length remains consistent at 45–47 cm across all sizes.

Techniques Used

This jacket is constructed using seamed and worked flat knitting techniques. Working flat means the pieces are knitted back and forth on straight needles rather than in the round, creating individual garment sections that are later joined together. The seaming method involves stitching these flat-worked pieces together at the seams, which is a hallmark of structured, tailored garment construction. This approach allows for precise shaping and professional finishing, making it suitable for a jacket design that requires clean lines and defined structure.

Stitches Used

The pattern employs a range of fundamental knitting stitches and abbreviations essential to intermediate knitting:

• Knit (k) and purl (p) – the basic stitches forming the foundation of all knitted fabric
• Stocking stitch (st st) – also called stockinette stitch in USA terminology, creating the smooth, classic knitted appearance
• Moss stitch – known as seed stitch in USA terminology, producing a textured, bumpy fabric
• Increases – including make one (m1) and knit into front and back (kfb) to add stitches for shaping
• Decreases – including slip, knit, pass slipped stitch over (skpo), slip, slip, knit together (ssk), and k2tog (knit two together) for tapering and shaping
• Yarn overs – created using yon (yarn over needle), yrn (yarn round needle), and y2rn (yarn round needle twice) for decorative or structural purposes
• Slipped stitches – used in decrease techniques and for edge finishing

Materials and Gauge

The pattern specifies yarn quantities that are approximate and based on average requirements. It is essential to work to the stated tension (gauge) before beginning the project, and knitters must always create a tension square to verify their gauge. If your tension square produces too many stitches per 10 cm (4 in), your tension is tight and you should switch to larger needles. Conversely, if you have too few stitches, your tension is loose and you should use smaller needles. The pattern emphasizes that only the specified yarn should be used to ensure the finished garment meets the intended dimensions and drape. Refer to the yarn ball band for washing and pressing instructions appropriate to your chosen yarn fiber.

Pattern Format and Sizing

This is a downloadable PDF pattern presented in a clear, professional format. Instructions are given for the first (smallest) size, with larger sizes provided in round brackets throughout. Where only one figure or instruction appears without brackets, that direction applies to all sizes. Repeated sections are indicated by square brackets with the number of repetitions specified. The pattern uses standard knitting abbreviations and includes a USA glossary to assist knitters familiar with American terminology.