Free 1940s Knitting Pattern: Man's Cycling Jerkin

So - you guys know I'm Dutch, right? I don't know how common knowledge this is, but in The Netherlands we cycle. A lot. We are in fact, the number 1 cycling country in the world. Now, I was always aware that cycling was more common in my country than in other countries, but it wasn't until I moved to the UK that I realized how big the difference actually is. I must say, I was quite shocked to see how few people cycle here, and how bad the roads are for cyclists.

It took me an entire year to find the courage to buy a bike and start cycling. In that year, I learned how much cycling is actually a part of me and my culture and I realized how much I loved cycling. So when this 1940s Bestway knitting pattern popped up on eBay, I let out a little scream and I just hád to have it. Aside from my completely biased opinion about the cycling theme, I also thought that this design is pretty unique in general. It's a nice change from all the standard men's sweater patterns and I have personally hardly ever come across any 1940s novelty designs for men.

I'm going to knit this one for myself - despite being for a 37-39 and 40-42" chest I think it should be perfectly doable to replace the DK weight yarn with a sport weight and knit it at circa 26-27 sts per 4"/10 cm for a 34" bust.

To download the PDF pattern click here. Also listed on Ravelry.

“This warm and delightful pullover is knitted with collar, cuffs and Fair Isle cycle design in a contrasting shade - brown and natural were chosen for the original. The neck can be worn open or closed.”

FOR THE 40 TO 42-INCH CHEST SIZE
Measurements:
To suit a 40-42 inch chest ; length, 21½ inches ; sleeve seam, 19 inches (with cuff turned back).

Materials:
Of Patons Moorland Knitting (a thick knitting wool), allow 14 ozs. (400 gr) in brown and 4 ozs. (115 gr) natural ; 1 pair each of No 8 (4 mm) and No 10 (3.25 mm) knitting needles ; a 9-inch zip fastener. (Garment can also be made in 3 ply fingering used double troughout, but allow 2 ozs. less of the main wool.)

Tension:
Over the stocking-stitch, 11 sts. to 2 inches and 7 rows to 1 inch.

THE 37 TO 39-INCH CHEST SIZE
Measurements:
To suit a 37 to 39-inch chest size ; length from shoulder, 19½ inches ; sleeve seam, 19 inches (with cuff turned back).

Materials: 
As given for 40 to 42-inch chest size, but No. 9 (3,75 mm) and No. 11 (3 mm) knitting needles instead of No. 8 and No. 10.

Tension:
6 sts. and 8 rows to 1 inch over the stocking-stitch.