Duncan Vest Knitting Pattern

Duncan Vest in Berroco Mirelle

What is Being Made

The Duncan Vest is an intermediate-level knitted garment designed by Alison Green. This vest is available in 10 different sizes, ranging from 36 inches to 72 inches in finished bust measurement, accommodating a wide range of body types. The finished length varies from approximately 21 inches to 25½ inches depending on size selection. The vest is shown in Size 5 (52 inches bust) and is modeled with approximately 6 inches of positive ease, with a recommended ease range of 4 to 8 inches for optimal fit.

Construction Techniques

The Duncan Vest employs a practical construction method that begins with working the garment in the round to the underarms, then dividing the work for separate back and front sections. This technique allows for seamless knitting in the body while enabling shaping at the armholes and neckline. The pattern incorporates German Short-Row Double Stitch (DS) shaping, a specialized technique that creates smooth, invisible short rows without the typical wraps associated with traditional short-row methods. After turning during short-row sections, knitters slip one stitch purlwise with yarn in front from the left-hand needle to the right-hand needle, then bring the working yarn over the slipped stitch to create the characteristic double stitch.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch used throughout the Duncan Vest is stockinette stitch (St st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric ideal for showcasing the yarn's characteristics. The pattern features a 19-stitch front panel that measures 4¾ inches wide after blocking, suggesting the inclusion of cable or textured stitching in this focal area. Stitch markers are used to track pattern repeats and construction divisions, with one removable marker recommended for flexibility during the knitting process.

Materials and Gauge

The Duncan Vest is designed to be knitted using Berroco Mirelle, a yarn that comes in 100-gram hanks. The yardage requirement varies by size, ranging from 4 hanks for the smallest sizes to 8 hanks for the largest sizes, with Size 5 requiring 6 hanks in colorway #11806 Waterfall. Knitters will need two 32-inch circular needles in sizes 7 (4.5 mm) and 8 (5 mm), plus a 16-inch circular needle in size 7 (4.5 mm) for working smaller circumferences. A spare size 8 (5 mm) needle is required for the three-needle bind-off finishing technique. Additional notions include a cable needle for any cable work, stitch markers for tracking progress, and waste yarn for holding stitches during construction.

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 16 stitches and 23 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch using the larger needles. Gauge is measured after blocking, making it essential to knit a swatch, wash it according to yarn care instructions, and measure carefully to ensure the finished vest meets the intended dimensions. Taking time to check gauge before beginning the project is strongly recommended to avoid sizing issues.

Pattern Notes

This downloadable PDF pattern is formatted for intermediate knitters and includes detailed construction notes to guide the knitting process. The pattern has been updated to reflect any corrections discovered since its initial release, and knitters are encouraged to download the most recent version to ensure accuracy. The design showcases the qualities of Berroco Mirelle yarn while providing a versatile vest suitable for various skill levels within the intermediate category.