Freda Jacket Knitting Pattern

Freda Jacket Knitting Pattern by Jenny Watson

What is Being Made

The Freda Jacket is an intermediate-level knitted garment designed by Jenny Watson for Noro. This is a structured jacket pattern available in five size options to fit bust measurements of 42, 46, 51, 56, and 60 centimeters (28-30, 32-34, 36-38, 40-42, and 44-46 inches). The finished jacket has an actual measurement range of 81 to 121 centimeters (32 to 47¾ inches) across the bust, with a full length of approximately 47 to 52 centimeters (18½ to 20½ inches). Sleeve length ranges from 43 to 48 centimeters (17 to 19 inches) depending on size.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The Freda Jacket employs several key knitting techniques to create a polished, wearable garment. The pattern uses stocking stitch as the primary fabric throughout the body and sleeves, creating a smooth, classic appearance. A ribbed border is worked at the front edges and neckline, providing structure and a refined finish.

Shaping is achieved through strategic decreasing at side edges and armholes. The pattern incorporates decreases worked every eighth row at the side seams to create a fitted silhouette. Armhole shaping is accomplished using cast-off stitches at the beginning of rows, followed by paired decreases (slip one, knit one, pass slipped stitch over, and knit two together) to create angled armhole edges. Neck shaping is integrated into the armhole shaping process, with stitches slipped onto stitch holders for the neckband.

The jacket is constructed in separate pieces—left front, right front, back, and sleeves—which are later assembled. The pattern provides detailed row-by-row instructions for shaping both the armholes and neckline simultaneously on the front pieces.

Stitches Used

The pattern employs fundamental knitting stitches suitable for an intermediate crafter:

• Knit (K) and Purl (P) stitches form the basis of all fabric
• Stocking stitch (st-st) created by alternating knit rows and purl rows
• Ribbing using alternating knit and purl stitches to create elastic, textured borders
• Slip stitch (s1p) used at edges for neat selvages
• Decreases including slip one, knit one, pass slipped stitch over (s1, K1, psso) and knit two together (K2tog) for shaping
• Yarn back (ybk) for creating intentional openings in the ribbed border detail

Materials and Tools

The Freda Jacket requires 350 to 550 grams of Noro Silk Garden yarn, depending on the chosen size. Noro Silk Garden is a premium blended yarn known for its beautiful color variations and luxurious feel, making it an excellent choice for a refined jacket.

Two pairs of knitting needles are required: 5mm (US8) needles for the main fabric and 4mm (US6) needles for the ribbed borders and initial cast-on rows. The pattern also calls for stitch holders to temporarily hold stitches during neckband construction and one button for closure.

Tension and Gauge

Achieving the correct tension is essential for this pattern. The specified gauge is 18 stitches and 24 rows to 10 centimeters (4 inches) over stocking stitch using 5mm (US8) knitting needles. Working a gauge swatch before beginning the jacket ensures the finished garment will fit properly and drape as intended.