Stillhet Cape

Stillhet Cape by Lindsey Stephens

What is Being Made

The Stillhet Cape is a sophisticated double-breasted crochet cape designed by Lindsey Stephens. This intermediate-level garment features a warm, structured center panel paired with delicate lacy sections on the back and sides. The cape is available in seven sizes ranging from Small to 4X-Large, with finished measurements spanning from 47.5 inches to 84.25 inches around at the fullest point when buttoned. The length varies from 15.75 inches in smaller sizes to 18 inches in the largest size. The design showcases decorative buttons as a prominent design feature, with ten to fourteen .75-inch buttons depending on the size selected.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This cape employs fundamental crochet techniques executed at an intermediate skill level. The construction strategy divides the garment into distinct sections: a warm, textured center panel and contrasting lacy pattern sections. The double-breasted button closure creates both functional and aesthetic appeal, allowing the wearer to adjust the fit and drape of the cape. The combination of solid and openwork sections demonstrates textural contrast and design sophistication.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch used throughout the Stillhet Cape is double crochet, which forms the substantial center panel. The pattern incorporates a lacy pattern for the back and side sections, creating visual interest and a lighter drape in these areas. This stitch combination balances structure with elegance, allowing the center panel to frame the button details while the lacy sections add movement and airiness to the overall silhouette.

Materials and Specifications

The Stillhet Cape requires sport weight yarn in quantities ranging from 980 yards for the Small size to 1,935 yards for the 4X-Large size. The sample garment in Medium size was created using Mrs. Crosby Hatbox, a premium yarn blend composed of 75% superwash merino wool, 15% silk, and 10% cashmere. This yarn comes in 3.5-ounce (100-gram) skeins with 317 yards (290 meters) per skein, requiring four skeins for the Medium sample in the Peacock colorway.

Construction requires an H/8 (5mm) crochet hook or the size needed to obtain proper gauge. Additional materials include ten to fourteen .75-inch buttons depending on size, four stitch markers for tracking pattern sections, and a yarn needle for finishing and weaving in ends.

Yarn Weight and Fiber Characteristics

The sport weight classification provides an ideal balance for this cape design, offering enough structure for the double crochet center panel while remaining lightweight enough for comfortable draping. The fiber blend of superwash merino wool, silk, and cashmere creates a garment with natural elasticity, luxurious softness, and practical washability. The merino wool provides warmth and resilience, the silk contributes sheen and drape, and the cashmere adds exceptional softness and insulation.