Caroline Plus - lace jacket with 3/4 sleeves

Caroline Plus – Lace Jacket with 3/4 Sleeves by Jennifer Lee

Garment Overview

The Caroline Plus is a ladies plus-size V-neck jacket designed by Jennifer Lee, featuring optional waist shaping and three-quarter length set-in sleeves. This knitted cardigan is available in sizes 2XL through 5XL, with garment bust measurements ranging from 127cm (50 inches) to 157cm (62 inches). The jacket combines elegant construction techniques with decorative lace detailing, making it a sophisticated layering piece suitable for intermediate knitters.

Design Features and Construction

The Caroline Plus showcases a thoughtful design that balances simplicity with visual interest. The bodice and sleeves are worked in straightforward stocking stitch, providing a smooth, classic foundation. The lower body transitions to a lovely lace pattern, creating an elegant focal point and adding texture to the garment. The V-neckline and optional waist shaping allow for customizable fit and silhouette, while the three-quarter sleeve length offers versatility for different seasons and styling preferences. The set-in sleeve construction provides a professional, tailored appearance.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate-level crafters. Stocking stitch forms the primary construction method for the bodice and sleeves, creating a smooth, uniform fabric surface. The lace pattern featured on the lower body introduces openwork elements that require attention to yarn-overs and decreases to create the decorative motif. Set-in sleeve construction involves shaping the armholes and sleeve caps for a fitted, professional finish. The pattern includes optional waist shaping, allowing knitters to customize the garment's silhouette through strategic increases and decreases.

Yarn and Needle Requirements

The Caroline Plus requires 7 to 8 balls of Lincraft Romance yarn in 50-gram balls, with each ball containing 185 meters of yardage. This DK weight yarn provides a lightweight yet substantial fabric suitable for a jacket. Construction uses 4.00mm knitting needles (UK size 8, US size 6), including a pair of straight needles and an 80cm circular needle for working larger sections. The recommended tension is 21 stitches and 28 rows to 10cm over stocking stitch, ensuring proper garment sizing and drape. A wool needle for seaming and a stitch holder for managing stitches during construction complete the essential tools.

Sizing and Finished Measurements

• Size 2XL: Fits bust 120cm (47¼ inches); garment measures 127cm (50 inches); length approximately 56cm (22 inches); sleeve length 32cm (12½ inches)
• Size 3XL: Fits bust 130cm (51¼ inches); garment measures 137cm (54 inches); length approximately 57cm (22½ inches); sleeve length 32cm (12½ inches)
• Size 4XL: Fits bust 140cm (55 inches); garment measures 147cm (58 inches); length approximately 58cm (23 inches); sleeve length 32cm (12½ inches)
• Size 5XL: Fits bust 150cm (59 inches); garment measures 157cm (62 inches); length approximately 59cm (23¼ inches); sleeve length 32cm (12½ inches)

Pattern Difficulty and Suitability

Rated as an easy to intermediate pattern, the Caroline Plus is accessible to knitters with foundational skills and some experience with garment construction. The combination of straightforward stocking stitch sections with lace detailing provides an excellent opportunity to develop lace-knitting skills while maintaining confidence through simpler sections. The pattern's clear structure and generous sizing accommodate various knitting speeds and preferences.