Paintbox Yarns La Jolla Cove Jacket Crochet Pattern

Paintbox Yarns La Jolla Cove Jacket

What Is Being Made

The La Jolla Cove Jacket is an intermediate-level crochet garment designed as a structured, finished-length jacket. The pattern is available in six sizes to fit bust measurements ranging from 81 cm to 107 cm (32 to 42 inches), with finished lengths between 51 cm and 56 cm (20 to 22 inches). This is a versatile layering piece suitable for various body sizes and proportions.

Crochet Techniques and Construction Methods

This jacket is constructed using seamed construction, meaning individual pieces are crocheted separately and then joined together. The garment is worked flat rather than in the round, allowing for controlled shaping and easier stitch counting. The design incorporates horizontal stripes as a primary design element, creating visual interest through the strategic use of multiple yarn colors throughout the piece.

The pattern uses UK crochet terminology with US equivalents provided in parentheses, making it accessible to crocheters in different regions. The construction method requires careful attention to tension and stitch placement to ensure pieces align properly during seaming.

Stitches Used

The La Jolla Cove Jacket employs several key crochet stitches:

• Extended Half Treble (ehtr), also known as Extended Half Double (ehdc) in US terminology, which is a mid-height stitch created by yarning over, inserting the hook into a stitch, pulling up a loop, yarning over, pulling through one loop, yarning over, and pulling through three loops
• Extended Half Treble 2 Together (ehtr2tog) or Extended Half Double 2 Together (ehdc2tog), a decrease stitch that combines two stitches into one for shaping
• Double Crochet (dc), known as Single Crochet (sc) in US terminology, a fundamental short stitch
• Chain Stitches (ch) for foundation and turning chains, with the important note that turning chains do not count as stitches in this pattern
• Raised Ripple Pattern Repeat, a textured stitch pattern that creates dimensional waves across the fabric

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The La Jolla Cove Jacket requires Paintbox Cotton DK yarn in four distinct colors:

• Color A - Stormy Grey: 5 to 7 balls of 50g depending on size
• Color B - Washed Teal: 1 ball of 50g for all sizes
• Color C - Midnight Blue: 3 to 5 balls of 50g depending on size
• Paintbox Yarns Metallics DK in Color D - Martini: 4 to 6 balls of 50g depending on size

The pattern specifies a 4mm crochet hook (UK size 8, US size G6) as the primary tool for construction. This hook size is essential for achieving the correct tension and gauge.

Tension and Gauge Requirements

Achieving proper tension is critical for this intermediate project. The pattern requires two different gauges depending on the stitch being worked:

• Extended Half Treble (Extended Half Double) Gauge: 20 stitches and 10 rows measured over 10 cm (4 inches) using a 4mm hook
• Raised Ripple Pattern Repeat Gauge: 20 stitches and 16 rows measured over 10 cm (4 inches) using a 4mm hook

Crocheters should work a gauge swatch before beginning the project to ensure their tension matches these specifications. Variations in tension can significantly affect the finished measurements and fit of the jacket.

Pattern Notes and Considerations

The pattern includes helpful guidelines for successful completion. Yarn quantities provided are approximate based on average requirements. The pattern is written for the smallest size with modifications for larger sizes indicated in square brackets. Where only one figure appears, it applies to all sizes. The pattern accommodates left-handed crocheters by noting that front and left sides will be reversed for this group. Paintbox Yarns recommends using only the specified yarn to ensure the finished garment meets quality and fit standards.