Debbie Bliss Nate Jacket Knitting Pattern

Debbie Bliss Nate Jacket

What is Being Made

The Nate Jacket is a child's knitted cardigan designed to fit ages 2–3, 4–5, and 6–7 years. This seamed jacket features a classic construction with set-in sleeves, a button front closure, and optional contrast detailing. The finished chest measurements range from 66cm (26 inches) for the smallest size to 74cm (29¼ inches) for the largest size, with corresponding length and sleeve adjustments across the three size options.

Techniques Used

The Nate Jacket employs several fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginner to intermediate crafters. The garment is worked flat on straight needles, meaning each piece is constructed separately before assembly. Seaming joins the front, back, and sleeve pieces together, creating a structured, tailored fit. The pattern incorporates buttonholes along the right front edge to accommodate buttons for closure. Button placement and attachment complete the functional front opening. Shaping techniques include cast-offs at strategic points to form armholes and shoulder seams, along with decreases (skpo and k2tog) to taper the neckline and sleeve caps for proper fit.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout the Nate Jacket is moss stitch, a textured, reversible stitch created by alternating knit and purl stitches in a 1×1 pattern (k1, p1, k1 to end, repeated). This stitch is worked over the main body pieces and creates visual interest while maintaining structural integrity. Stocking stitch is used for the pocket linings, providing a smooth, compact base that sits neatly behind the moss stitch exterior. The gauge is 18 stitches and 36 rows to 10cm (4 inches) over moss stitch using 5mm (US 8) needles, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements.

Materials and Tools

The Nate Jacket is knitted using Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran yarn, a blend combining the softness of cashmere with the durability of merino wool. The main color is Navy 04 (M), with quantities ranging from 6 balls for the smallest size to 8 balls for the largest size; each ball weighs 50 grams. A single 50-gram ball of Silver 202 (C) provides optional contrast for embellishment or detail. Knitting needles required include a pair of 4.5mm (US 7) needles and a pair of 5mm (US 8) needles for the main fabric, along with a 4.5mm (US 7) circular needle for neckline finishing. Four buttons, each 18mm in diameter, complete the closure system.

Construction Overview

The jacket comprises a back piece, two front pieces, two sleeves, and one pocket lining. The back is cast on and worked in moss stitch until the armhole depth is reached, then shaped with cast-offs and decreases to form the shoulder seams. Each front piece mirrors this process but includes additional neck shaping through decreases worked on alternating rows. The pocket lining is worked separately in stocking stitch and integrated into the left front. Sleeves are worked flat and seamed into the armholes, with cap shaping created through decreases. The final assembly involves seaming all pieces together and attaching buttons to correspond with buttonholes on the right front band.