Paintbox Yarns Charming Criss Cross Jacket Knitting Pattern

Paintbox Yarns Charming Criss-Cross Jacket

What Is Being Made

The Charming Criss-Cross Jacket is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed to fit bust measurements ranging from 81 cm to 117 cm (32 to 46 inches). This garment features a finished length from back neck of 52 to 55 cm (20½ to 21¾ inches), with sleeve seams measuring 35 to 37 cm (13¾ to 14½ inches). The jacket is available in eight different sizes, making it suitable for a wide range of body types. The design incorporates a distinctive criss-cross styling detail that adds visual interest and texture to the finished piece.

Construction Techniques

This jacket is constructed using bottom-up seamed construction, meaning the pieces are knitted from the lower edges upward and then sewn together. The garment is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for straightforward shaping and pattern work. The design features horizontal stripes throughout, created by changing between the three coordinating yarn colors at specified intervals. The seamed construction method provides clean, professional finishing and allows for precise fit adjustments across multiple sizes.

Stitches and Pattern Details

The primary stitch used in this project is stocking stitch (stockinette stitch), which creates a smooth, classic fabric surface with knit stitches on the right side and purl stitches on the wrong side. The pattern is worked using basic knitting abbreviations including knit (K), purl (P), decreases (dec), and repeat instructions (rep). The stripe pattern is created by systematically changing yarn colors throughout the construction, with the pattern instructions provided for the smallest size and adjustments given in square brackets for larger sizes. The criss-cross design element is achieved through the strategic placement and color arrangement of these stripes.

Materials Required

This project uses Paintbox Yarns Wool Mix Super Chunky yarn in three coordinating colors: Pure Black, Raspberry Pink, and Pillar Red. Yarn quantities vary by size, ranging from 4 to 7 balls of Pure Black (100g balls), 3 to 6 balls of Raspberry Pink, and 3 to 6 balls of Pillar Red. The pattern requires a pair of 12mm (US 17) knitting needles, which are appropriately sized for the super chunky yarn weight. Additionally, 5 large stud fasteners are needed for the jacket closure. The recommended tension (gauge) is 9 stitches and 12 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) when measured over the pattern using the specified 12mm needles.

Important Pattern Notes

• Instructions are written using UK knitting terminology with US terminology provided in italics and parentheses
• Yarn quantities provided are approximate based on average requirements
• Checking tension (gauge) before beginning is vitally important for achieving the correct finished measurements
• The pattern is designed specifically for Paintbox Yarns Wool Mix Super Chunky; using alternative yarns may affect the final result
• Color reproduction may vary slightly depending on screen accuracy
• Where only one figure is given in the instructions, it applies to all sizes
• A figure of 0 indicates that no stitches, rows, or times are worked for that particular size