Sweatshirt Jacket

About the DesignAs first featured in Knitter’s Fall ’96 issue

This stylish and practical hoodie was crafted with my husband in mind, an engine rebuilder and mechanic who often relies on cotton thermal sweatshirts. Unfortunately, these typical sweatshirts often fall short in warmth and tend to shrink after repeated washes and machine drying. That’s why I designed this unique hoodie to provide both comfort and durability, making it the perfect addition to any mechanic's wardrobe—or for anyone seeking a cozy yet functional piece.

This unisex hoodie features a comfortable fit that appeals to both men and women. If hoods aren’t your preference, you can easily modify the design by creating a ribbed neck and replacing the hood with a stylish neckline. Simply add ribbing at the neck before you work the single crochet edging along the front edges and insert a slightly longer zipper that extends into the ribbing for a polished look.

Yarn: For this knitting pattern, you will need chunky to bulky weight wool. You will need approximately 2000 (2100, 2400) yards in your color of choice. The original hoodie was crafted using Tahki’s Lana at 36.8 yds/oz., held double. A great alternative is the Brown Sheep Lamb’s Pride Bulky, which also holds up beautifully when held double.

Gauge: To ensure your hoodie fits perfectly, aim for a gauge of 10 stitches and 14 rows = 4” (10 cm) in stockinette stitch using size 11 needles (or whichever size achieves the mentioned gauge) while holding two strands of yarn together.

This knitting pattern combines style and function, making it an ideal choice for those who desire warmth without compromising on design. Not only will you enjoy knitting this versatile hoodie, but it will also become a staple in your wardrobe. Happy Knitting!

Warm regards, Dawn