The Lucy

The Lucy Knitted Jacket by ChrisdL

Garment Overview

The Lucy is a flattering, comfortable knitted coat designed by Chris de Longpré and published in 2007. This intermediate-level knitting project features a graceful silhouette with a glorious swing of texture that falls elegantly from the shoulders to a 3/4-length hemline. The design combines practical elements with sophisticated styling, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe.

Design Features and Construction

This coat-style jacket showcases several thoughtful design elements that enhance both comfort and wearability. The garment includes full-length sleeves that provide complete arm coverage, paired with an open wrap front that offers styling flexibility and ease of wear. Convenient slash pockets are integrated into the design, adding functional appeal to the piece. The coat is available in five sizes: XS (30"), S (34"), M (38"), L (42"), and XL (46"), with 7 inches of positive ease built into the pattern for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Lucy employs pattern stitch work as the primary decorative element, creating the textured visual interest that characterizes the garment's elegant drape. The construction utilizes circular knitting techniques for the main body of the coat, allowing for seamless or minimal-seam construction that enhances the garment's fluid movement and comfort.

Yarn and Materials

Yarn Requirements: This project calls for bulky weight yarn in the primary color, with yardage requirements varying by size: 1620 yards for XS, 1735 yards for S, 1790 yards for M, 2015 yards for L, and 2190 yards for XL. The model shown was knitted in Cascade 128 Chunky, demonstrating the suitability of this yarn weight for the design. Additionally, 125 yards of worsted weight yarn in a coordinating color is required for pocket linings, with the model featuring Cascade 220 for this detail.

Needle and Tool Requirements: The coat is worked on a 47-inch circular needle in US size 10 (6.0mm) or the size needed to obtain proper gauge. Straight needles in US size 7 (4.5mm) are used for the pocket lining sections. Additional tools include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, stitch holders for managing stitches during construction, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and seaming, and a crochet hook in size H (5.0mm) for finishing details.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 15 stitches and 23 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in the pattern stitch used for the main coat. For the pocket linings worked in worsted weight yarn, the gauge is 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches. Obtaining accurate gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions and ensuring the coat drapes as designed.

Skill Level

This project is rated at an intermediate difficulty level, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond basic stockinette stitch. The pattern assumes familiarity with circular knitting, pattern stitch work, and garment construction techniques such as managing multiple stitches and shaping.