Noro Pretty Vest Knitting Pattern

Pretty Waistcoat by Noro Boutique

What is Being Made

Pretty is a fitted knitted waistcoat (sleeveless vest) designed by Jenny Watson for Noro Boutique. This garment is crafted to provide a tailored silhouette with precise shaping at the armholes and neckline. The waistcoat is available in five size options ranging from X Small (to fit bust 81/86cm or 32/34in) through to X Large (to fit bust 122/127cm or 48/50in), with actual finished bust measurements from 86cm (34in) to 132cm (52in). The full length of the garment ranges from 43cm (17in) in the smallest size to 51cm (20in) in the largest size, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various styling occasions.

Techniques Used

Pretty is constructed using bottom-up knitting methodology, meaning the garment is worked from the lower edge upward toward the shoulders and neckline. The waistcoat is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for straightforward shaping and seaming. The finished pieces are seamed together to create the final garment structure. This approach provides excellent control over fit and allows for precise increases and decreases at strategic points including the armhole edges and front neckline.

The pattern incorporates multiple shaping techniques throughout construction. Decreases are worked at the armhole edge on alternating rows to create a fitted sleeve opening. Simultaneous neck shaping is achieved through decreases at the front edge, worked at intervals that vary by size to ensure proper proportions. Strategic increases are also incorporated at the front edge during certain sections to build the width needed for the waistcoat's body and to accommodate the ribbed front bands.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout Pretty is stocking stitch (stockinette stitch), which creates a smooth, classic fabric surface ideal for displaying the subtle color variations in Noro yarn. Stocking stitch is achieved by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side, producing the characteristic V-pattern texture.

Ribbing is used as a finishing element on the waistcoat. The pattern specifies 2x2 rib, which alternates two knit stitches with two purl stitches across the row. This elastic ribbing is worked on smaller needles to create a snug, fitted edge that provides structure and helps the garment maintain its shape during wear and washing.

Materials Required

Pretty is designed to be knitted with Noro Obi yarn in colorway 15. The yardage requirements vary by size: X Small and Small require 3 balls of 100g each, while Medium, Large, and X Large require 4, 4, and 5 balls respectively. This yarn choice contributes to the garment's visual interest through Noro's characteristic color gradations.

The pattern calls for two pairs of 6mm (US10) knitting needles for working the main fabric at the specified tension of 13 stitches and 19 rows over 10cm (4in) in stocking stitch. A 5mm (US8) needle pair is required for the ribbed sections, which are worked at a tighter gauge to create the necessary elasticity. An 80cm circular needle in 5mm (US8) is also included in the materials list, likely for picking up stitches around the armholes and neckline for finishing.