James C. Brett JB Jacket and Sweater Knitting Pattern

James C. Brett JB Jacket and Sweater

What Is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern from James C. Brett provides instructions for creating two coordinating pieces: a double knitting cardigan jacket and a matching sweater. Both garments are designed to be versatile layering pieces suitable for various occasions. The pattern is available in six sizes ranging from 71/76cm (28/30 inches) to 112/117cm (44/46 inches) bust measurements, making it accessible for a wide range of body types.

Garment Specifications

Cardigan Jacket: Features a full length of 64–72cm (25¼–28¼ inches) depending on size, with sleeve lengths ranging from 43–47cm (17–18½ inches). The jacket is designed as a classic cardigan style and requires a single button for closure.

Sweater: Offers a full length of 54–62cm (21¼–24¼ inches), with sleeve lengths of 46–47cm (18–18½ inches). This piece provides a fitted sweater option to pair with the cardigan.

Knitting Techniques Used

Both garments are constructed using bottom-up knitting methodology, meaning pieces are worked from the lower edge upward to the shoulder. The pattern employs seamed construction, where individual pieces are knitted flat and then sewn together to create the finished garments. This traditional approach allows for precise shaping and professional finishing details.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used throughout these garments is moss stitch, also known as seed stitch. Moss stitch is created by alternating knit and purl stitches in a checkerboard pattern, producing a textured, reversible fabric with excellent drape and stability. The pattern specifies a tension of 22 stitches and 36 rows to 10cm (4 inches) over moss stitch, which is essential for achieving the correct garment dimensions.

Additionally, 1×1 ribbing is incorporated into the pattern, likely used for cuffs, waistbands, or neckline finishes. The ribbing is worked by alternating knit and purl stitches in a single-stitch repeat, creating an elastic edging that helps garments maintain their shape.

Materials and Needles

These garments are knitted using double knitting (DK) weight yarn in the James C. Brett Marble DK quality. Yarn requirements are as follows:

• Cardigan Jacket: 6–8 balls of 100g Marble DK (depending on size)
• Sweater: 5–6 balls of 100g Marble DK (depending on size)

The pattern requires multiple needle sizes to achieve proper tension and construction:

• 1 pair of 4mm (UK size 8 / US size 6) knitting needles for main fabric
• 1 pair of 3.25mm (UK size 10 / US size 3) knitting needles for ribbed edgings
• 1 pair of 3.25mm (UK size 10 / US size 3) circular needles, 100cm length (for the jacket)
• Stitch holders for managing active stitches during construction
• 1 button for the cardigan closure

Pattern Notes and Tension Importance

The pattern emphasizes that working to the stated tension is essential for success. Knitters should swatch before beginning and adjust needle sizes if necessary: use finer needles if achieving more than 22 stitches and 36 rows per 10cm, or larger needles if achieving fewer. Instructions are provided for the smallest size (71/76cm) with larger sizes given in square brackets throughout the pattern, allowing knitters to easily locate size-specific information. Where only one figure appears, it applies to all sizes; where a zero is indicated, that step is skipped for that particular size.