The original criss-crossing Jacob’s Ladder pattern - proof that this straight-forward technique needn’t be straight!

This pattern uses the Jacob’s Ladder technique to create a textured braid or cabled look. It includes a picture tutorial to walk you through the “laddering” process. You may wish to walk through this tutorial before you try this pattern: https://youtu.be/vAry4UxKKqY or https://www.ravelry.com/discuss/fantasticmio/4068966/1-25

Stitches used: chain stitch and double crochet stitch. (US terminology)

Thoughts on colour choice: I prefer the look of this technique when it stripes - one solid colour per row, which makes it an excellent pattern for using up scraps (as in the sample). It can also be quite stunning done entirely in one colour.

Suggested yarns to match gauge: Bernat Satin or Caron Simply Soft

If you are getting a different gauge and want to know how many times to repeat the brackets section, make up a swatch using double crochet stitches. The ladders end up being approximately 2 stitches wide, so use that in your calculations. Or, make a swatch using the tutorial linked to above for a more accurate idea of how much your blanket will shrink when you ladder it up.

Update Feb 16 2013: expect to use approximately 3100 yards if making an adult-sized blanket.