Laurel Slipover Knitting Pattern

Laurel Slipover in Rowan Pure Cashmere

What Is Being Made

The Laurel Slipover is a knitted sleeveless garment designed to fit bust sizes ranging from 71–157 cm (28–62 inches). This intermediate-level project creates a fitted pullover-style vest with a shaped neckline and collar detail. The slipover is constructed using classic knitting techniques with seamless shaping at the shoulders and a finished neckband for a polished appearance.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs fundamental knitting construction methods suitable for intermediate crafters. The garment is worked in pieces—back, front, and collar—using flat knitting on straight needles, with an optional circular needle for accommodating larger stitch counts. Key shaping techniques include:

• Decreasing at the neck edge using single decreases worked over multiple rows and alternating rows to create a smooth, tapered neckline
• Shoulder shaping through strategic stitch placement and cast-offs
• Seaming using back stitch or mattress stitch for professional finishing
• Picking up and knitting stitches around the neckline to attach the collar band

Stitches Used

The Laurel Slipover is primarily constructed in stockinette stitch (st st), the foundational stitch for most knitted garments. This smooth, flat fabric showcases the luxurious qualities of the yarn. The pattern requires understanding of basic decreasing methods for neck shaping and standard cast-on and cast-off techniques to complete the garment professionally.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

This project is designed to be worked in Rowan Pure Cashmere, a luxury yarn available in 50-gram balls. The garment shown in the pattern is photographed in Chalk 094, a neutral shade. Yarn requirements range from 5 balls for smaller sizes to 7 balls for the largest size, depending on the finished bust measurement selected.

The pattern calls for 3¾mm (US 5) needles in a straight pair format. For knitters working larger sizes with increased stitch counts, an optional 3¾mm (US 5) circular needle at least 80 cm long is recommended for working the back piece in flat rows, accommodating the high number of stitches more comfortably than straight needles.

Tension and Fit

Achieving the correct tension is essential for this project. The pattern specifies 22 stitches and 30 rows to 10 centimeters measured over stockinette stitch using 3¾mm needles. Accurate tension ensures the finished garment matches the intended bust measurements and drapes properly. Nine size options are provided, with actual bust measurements ranging from 86.5 cm to 166.5 cm, allowing customization for various body types.