Bearach

Bearach Crochet Jacket by Caroline Murphy

What is Being Made

Bearach is a modular crochet jacket designed by independent designer Caroline Murphy. This intermediate-level project creates a colorful, block-constructed jacket with finished measurements of 86.25cm (34 inches) across and 43.75cm (17.25 inches) in length. The garment is built using a join-as-you-go technique, where individual granny squares are connected during construction rather than assembled afterward, resulting in a structured and durable finished piece.

Construction Techniques

The Bearach jacket employs a distinctive modular construction method where each square is joined as you go. This technique offers several advantages: it reduces finishing work, creates a more cohesive fabric structure, and allows for color placement planning throughout the building process. The pattern uses American crochet terminology and requires two different hook sizes to achieve proper tension and finish details.

The foundational structure begins with a circular starting point for each square, worked in rounds. Subsequent rounds build outward from the center, incorporating chain spaces at corners that define the square's geometry. The join-as-you-go method means that as new squares are added, they are simultaneously connected to previously completed squares, creating an integrated fabric rather than separate pieces.

Stitches Used

• Chain stitch (ch) – Used to create foundation rings and decorative spacing throughout the design
• Double crochet (dc) – The primary structural stitch forming the body of each granny square
• Single crochet (sc) – Used in edging work to create neat, finished borders
• Slip stitch (ss) – Employed to join rounds and connect squares during the join-as-you-go process
• Chain spaces (ch-sp) – Deliberate gaps created by chains, particularly at corners to define the square shape and provide visual interest

The granny stitch pattern forms the foundation of this design. This classic crochet motif combines double crochet clusters separated by chain spaces, creating the characteristic open, lacy appearance of traditional granny squares while maintaining structural integrity suitable for a wearable garment.

Materials and Specifications

The Bearach jacket requires approximately 520 metres (569 yards) of DK weight yarn in assorted colors. The use of multiple colors is integral to the design, allowing crafters to create a vibrant, multicolored block-party aesthetic. DK (double knitting) weight yarn is a versatile mid-weight option that works well for garments requiring good drape and stitch definition.

Two crochet hooks are required: a 5mm hook for the main fabric and a 4mm hook for edgings. The pattern specifies a tension of 16 stitches and 7 rows over 10cm (4 inches) when working the granny stitch with the 5mm hook. Achieving proper tension is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements and ensuring the jacket fits as designed.

The pattern is written using American crochet terminology, making it accessible to crocheters familiar with this standard notation system. The downloadable PDF format allows crafters to reference instructions digitally or print them for convenient access while working.