Patch style housecoat

Patch Style Housecoat by Dorothy Shaw

What is Being Made

This is a patchwork-style housecoat designed by Dorothy Shaw, a relaxed cardigan-style garment intended to fit a Large size (40-42" chest, sizes 16-18). The design features a distinctive patchwork construction using multiple color patches worked in knitting. The housecoat is suitable for advanced knitters and can be adapted to smaller sizes by reducing stitch counts and adjusting patch dimensions proportionally.

Knitting Techniques Used

The patchwork-style construction is the primary technique featured in this design. The garment is worked using circular needles in multiple lengths to manage the increasing stitch counts across different sections. The pattern requires careful color placement and transitions between the various tinted shades to create the patchwork effect. Knitters will need to manage yarn changes and maintain consistent tension throughout the color work sections. The design demonstrates advanced-level shaping and construction methods suitable for experienced knitters.

Stitches Used

• Stocking stitch (st. st.) – The primary stitch throughout the garment, created by knitting one row and purling one row alternately so the smooth side faces outward
• Reverse stocking stitch – Used selectively in the design, created by knitting and purling in the same alternating pattern but with the smooth side facing inward

Materials and Tools

Yarn: Schachenmayr Bravo DK weight yarn in four shades of similar tint. The total yardage is 13 balls (650g), distributed as follows: 2 balls of mid-light color, 3 balls of lightest shade, and 4 balls each of the darkest and mid-dark shades. The pattern uses approximately 11 balls' worth of yarn, allowing for some flexibility depending on color allocation choices.

Needles: 4mm diameter circular needles in four different lengths – 30cm, 40cm, 80cm, and 100cm – to accommodate the varying stitch counts across the body and sleeves. A darning needle is required for finishing.

Tension: 19 stitches and 28 rows to 10cm measured over stocking stitch using 4mm needles. Achieving correct tension is essential for proper fit and drape.

Notions: Five large buttons in a matching color and a sewing needle with matching thread for button attachment and any necessary seaming.

Size Adjustment Information

While the pattern is written for Large, it can be adapted to smaller sizes by reducing 4 stitches from the main body and 2 stitches from the arms per size decrease. Patches should be shortened by approximately 1cm per size reduction to maintain proportional patchwork elements.