Meet-In-Front

Meet-In-Front Crochet Cape by MADuNaier

What Is Being Made

The Meet-In-Front is a crocheted cape or poncho designed by MADuNaier as part of the capes_and_ponchos collection. This garment features a distinctive front closure design where the front sections meet together, eliminating the need for multiple buttons while maintaining an elegant, layered appearance. The design was inspired by a modification of the Victorian Cross-Over style, adapted to work with fewer buttons—requiring only 3 to 5 buttons depending on size. The cape is available in three finished sizes: Child (18" deep), Adult Small (22" deep), and Adult Large (26" deep), measured from the back of the neck down to the bottom center point.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level crochet project employs fundamental shaping and construction techniques suitable for crafters with some experience. The garment is constructed using standard crochet methods including chain foundations, slip stitches for joining, and strategic stitch placement to create the distinctive meet-in-front silhouette. The pattern utilizes stitch markers to track progress and maintain consistency throughout the project. The front sections are shaped to angle inward and meet at the center front, creating a sophisticated overlap that serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. The design demonstrates how thoughtful pattern modification can solve practical constraints, such as the limitation of available vintage buttons.

Stitches Used

• Chain stitch (ch) — used to establish foundations and create chain spaces
• Slip stitch (sl st) — employed for joining rounds and securing stitches
• Single crochet stitch (sc) — provides structure and density in the fabric
• Single crochet decrease (sc dec) — used to shape the garment by decreasing stitches
• Double crochet stitch (dc) — creates the V stitch pattern that forms the primary fabric texture
• V stitch (V st) — the signature stitch pattern; the gauge is measured at 6 V stitches per 4 inches

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Meet-In-Front requires a size I (5.5mm) crochet hook as the primary tool. The pattern calls for worsted weight yarn in quantities based on finished size: 550 yards for Child size, 850 yards for Adult Medium, and 1150 yards for Adult Large. For crafters interested in a two-color version, approximately half of the yardage listed is used for each color, allowing for creative colorwork possibilities. Additional materials include stitch markers for tracking pattern progress, a yarn sewing needle for weaving in ends and seaming, and 3 to 5 buttons measuring 3/4 to 7/8 inches in diameter—vintage buttons work beautifully with this design. The recommended gauge is 6 V stitches equaling 4 inches when worked with the specified hook size, which is essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions.