Lindsay's Jacket Cascade PacificFree Knitting Pattern

Lindsay's Jacket Cascade Pacific Free Knitting Pattern

Project Overview

Lindsay's Jacket is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Linda Voss Plummer for Cascade Yarns. This charming children's jacket is available in five sizes ranging from 2 to 10 years old, with finished chest measurements from 24 to 32 inches. The pattern was created in 2016 and is worked in a soft, durable yarn blend that makes it perfect for everyday wear.

Materials and Yarn

This jacket is designed to be knitted with Cascade Yarns Pacific, a blend of 60% acrylic and 40% superwash merino wool. Each skein provides 213 yards (195 meters) and weighs 100 grams (3.5 ounces). Depending on the size being made, you will need between 3 to 5 skeins of color #26 (Lavender). The pattern calls for US 7 knitting needles or the size needed to achieve the specified gauge. Additional materials include 4 buttons (1-inch size), stitch markers, and a yarn needle for finishing.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 20 stitches over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in stockinette stitch. Accurate gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements. The five available sizes accommodate children aged 2 to 10 years, with chest circumferences of 24, 26, 28, 30, and 32 inches.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

Lindsay's Jacket employs several fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The pattern utilizes the following stitches and techniques:

• Seed Stitch: Used for the ribbed edges and front placket to create a textured, non-curling border that frames the jacket
• Stockinette Stitch: Forms the main fabric body of the jacket, creating a smooth, classic appearance
• Lace Chart: A decorative lace pattern is incorporated into the left front panel, adding visual interest and sophistication to the design
• Decreases: The pattern uses K2tog (knit 2 together) and SSK (slip, slip, knit) decreases to shape the jacket at the sides and armholes
• Yarn Overs (YO): Used in conjunction with the lace chart to create openwork details
• 3-Needle Bind Off: Applied when joining pieces together with a secure, professional finish
• Increases: KFSlB (knit into front and back of stitch) technique is used to add stitches where needed for shaping

Construction Method

The jacket is constructed using a traditional flat knitting method, with the back and front pieces worked separately and then assembled. The back panel is cast on and begins with seed stitch ribbing for 13 to 17 rows (depending on size), followed by a transition to stockinette stitch. Strategic decreases are worked at both side edges to create a fitted silhouette, with decreases occurring at 3 to 4 inches from the cast-on edge and repeated at regular intervals.

The left front features a more complex construction, incorporating seed stitch edging along the front placket and a decorative lace chart panel in the center. This front panel is worked simultaneously with stockinette stitch sections, requiring careful attention to stitch pattern transitions. The front edge maintains seed stitch throughout to prevent curling and provide a polished finish for button placement.

Shaping and Fit

The jacket includes strategic shaping at the sides and armholes to create a well-fitted garment. Side decreases are worked symmetrically to taper the body, while armhole shaping is accomplished by working the edge stitches in seed stitch and the center stitches in stockinette stitch. This creates a structured armhole opening while maintaining the textured border aesthetic. The back piece measures between 12.5 and 16 inches from the cast-on edge before armhole shaping begins, depending on the child's size.

Design Features

Lindsay's Jacket combines classic cardigan styling with contemporary design elements. The seed stitch borders provide both structural stability and visual definition, while the lace chart on the left front adds an elegant, decorative touch. The button placket is carefully constructed to ensure proper button placement and a secure closure. The combination of textured and smooth stitches creates visual depth and interest throughout the garment.

Skill Level Considerations