Hilillo Jacket

Hilillo Jacket by Kristen Jancuk

What Is Being Made

The Hilillo Jacket is a children's cardigan sweater designed by Kristen Jancuk and available in six kids' sizes ranging from size 2 through size 12. The finished chest circumference ranges from 21 inches (53.5 cm) for the smallest size to 30 inches (76 cm) for the largest size. This cozy, comfortable-fitting cardigan is constructed to provide year-round warmth and wearability for children, featuring practical design elements such as pockets and toggle loops that make it both functional and playful for active kids.

Construction Method and Design Approach

The Hilillo Jacket uses a side-to-side construction method, which simplifies the pocket integration and creates a unique building approach compared to traditional top-down or bottom-up cardigan patterns. This construction technique allows for seamless incorporation of pockets and makes the addition of toggle loops straightforward. The design draws inspiration from the Humo Amargo sweater, translating its aesthetic principles into a child-friendly garment with added practical features.

Knitting Stitches and Techniques

• Garter stitch serves as the primary stitch pattern, creating a squishy, textured fabric with excellent drape and comfort
• I-cord edging trims the cardigan and provides the perfect foundation for attaching toggle loops, adding both visual interest and functional closures
• Toggle loops are constructed using the i-cord edging, offering a charming alternative to traditional button bands
• Pocket construction is simplified through the side-to-side building method, making this an accessible intermediate-level project

Yarn and Materials

The Hilillo Jacket requires heavy DK or worsted weight yarn in quantities ranging from approximately 550 yards (503 meters) for size 2 up to 1,050 yards (960 meters) for size 12. An additional 100 yards (92 meters) of fingering weight yarn is needed for the i-cord edging and toggle loop details. Knitters will need appropriately sized needles for the heavy DK or worsted weight yarn used for the main body, with the pattern specifying a gauge of 20 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in garter stitch when worked on the largest needles and blocked.

Difficulty Level

Rated as an intermediate knitting project, the Hilillo Jacket is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle side-to-side construction and incorporate design elements like pockets and i-cord edging. The straightforward garter stitch pattern and simplified pocket construction make this an approachable intermediate pattern despite the non-traditional building method.