Capture attention with this cozy crochet herringbone top-down piece that fits perfectly, feels soft, and adds a unique touch to every outfit effortlessly.
Make a stunning statement with this garment featuring a charming zigzag texture that instantly catches the eye. Its soft, cozy feel wraps you in comfort, perfect for cooler days or relaxed evenings. Crocheted from the neckline downward, this design gently hugs your body, offering a comfortable and flattering fit for all shapes. The neat rows create an elegant yet simple pattern that adds a touch of handmade beauty to any outfit.
Crochet a Lovely Herringbone Top-Down with Ease
Whether paired with jeans, skirts, or layered over a dress, it brings versatile style and warmth to your wardrobe. Ideal for casual outings or cozy gatherings, this piece blends comfort and charm effortlessly. Its delicate look and snug feel make it a beloved choice for everyday wear, giving anyone who puts it on a sense of warmth and grace. Fresh, inviting, and full of character, this top promises both style and comfort in one lovely package.
Top-Down Herringbone Double Crochet Jacket
Special Features
- Top-down construction allows easy fitting adjustments.
- Yoke in raised herringbone double crochet stitch for elegant texture.
- Smooth body and sleeves with optional decreases for sleeve shaping.
- Sizes adjustable by initial chain length and number of increases.
- Optional underarm chains creating separation for sleeves and body.
Difficulty Level
Intermediate – requires familiarity with advanced stitches (herringbone dc), working in rounds, increases, decreases, and reading pattern instructions carefully.
Materials Needed
- 100% acrylic yarn, medium thickness (~3 mm recommended).
- Crochet hook 6.5 mm (for foundation chain), 6 mm for body and yoke.
- Stitch markers.
- Scissors, tapestry needle.
Step-by-Step Crochet Pattern
Step 1: Foundation Chain
- For Size M (Medium): Chain 60.
- For Size L (Large): Chain 65.
- For larger sizes, add increments of 10 chains accordingly.
Step 2: Foundation Row – Single Crochet Base
- Switch to 6 mm hook after chaining.
- Work one single crochet (sc) in each chain, inserting the hook in the “hills” (back bumps) of the chain for a neat edge.
- For 60 chains, you will have 60 sc stitches.
- Join with slip stitch, careful not to twist.
Step 3: Begin Herringbone Double Crochet Row (Row 1 of Yoke)
- Chain 2 (or 3 based on preference). This counts as your first herringbone double crochet (hdc).
- For each single crochet stitch from the previous row, work 1 herringbone double crochet:
- Yarn over, insert hook into second stitch, pull through, yarn over and pass over the first loop on hook.
- Yarn over, pull through one loop, yarn over and pull through two loops — repeat loop passing for each herringbone dc as described to get textured stitch with raised “spike”.
- Complete hdc across, counting initial chains as stitches.
Step 4: Increase Rows for Shaping
- Every alternate row (odd-numbered hdc rows) you will make increases spaced evenly:
- Increase by placing 2 hdc stitches in the same stitch at specified intervals to grow yoke width.
- For example, Row 3: make an increase at the 2nd stitch, then every 4th stitch thereafter. Total 15 increases.
- Increase spacing by 1 stitch on each subsequent increase round (e.g., every 5th, then 6th, etc.).
- After increase row, work a purl row (even-numbered row) copying stitch for stitch in relief, no increases. This keeps stitch count steady on purl rows.
Step 5: Continue Work and Measure
- Continue alternating between increase hdc rows and purl hdc rows until yoke reaches approx 23 cm height for size M (adjust height for other sizes).
- For size M, will have approx 150 stitches after complete increases.
- Larger sizes have more initial chains and extra increases; smaller sizes start with fewer chains and fewer increases.
Step 6: Divide for Sleeves, Front, and Back
- Mark and divide stitches:
- Size M example: 30 stitches for each sleeve, 22 stitches for each front, 46 stitches for back.
- Chain 4 stitches between sleeve and front/back sections to create armhole gap.
- Join front and back and sleeves at these sections with chains acting as open underarm spaces.
Step 7: Body and Sleeves Construction
- Body is worked flat or circular depending on preference: place stitches accordingly, 1 stitch per stitch worked.
- Sleeves are worked in the round:
- Join underarm chains to form round
- Work hdc stitches round and round
- Decrease sleeve circumference by decreasing 2 stitches per 5 rows approx:
- Decrease by hdc2tog (herringbone double crochet two together) at start and end of round until desired sleeve width is reached.
- Decrease by hdc2tog (herringbone double crochet two together) at start and end of round until desired sleeve width is reached.
Step 8: Border Finishing
- On cuffs, neckline, and sweater bottom edge, finish with single crochet edging:
- Single crochet one in each stitch, chaining 1 between sc for airy but stable edge.
- Optionally sew decorative braid or sequins under the neckline or borders for extra style.
Tutor’s Suggestions
- Use stitch markers to mark increases and division points for sleeve separation.
- Maintain consistent tension for beautiful textured hdc stitches.
- Try on yoke frequently to get perfect fitting before dividing sleeves and body.
- When working relief stitches, enter hook in the upper loops of the stitch to create characteristic herringbone spikes on the front.
Uses
- Elegant, warm jacket ideal for cooler weather.
- Statement piece with textured herringbone pattern, suitable for casual or formal wear.
- Perfect as a handmade gift for friends and family.
Helpful Tip
When joining underarm chains for sleeves and body, leave 4–8 chains for comfortable armholes — customize for your size and preferred ease.
Conclusion
This top-down herringbone double crochet jacket balances style and comfort with its beautifully textured yoke and adaptable fit. By following the increase scheme and working in rounds for sleeves and body, you can customize to your exact size and style preference.
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