Rambler Ruana Waistcoat Knitting Pattern

Rambler Ruana in Noro Bachi

What is Being Made

The Rambler Ruana is an intermediate-level knitted waistcoat designed in two sizes: Small/Medium and Large/X-Large. This garment features a finished back width of 28 inches (71cm) for Small/Medium or 32 inches (81cm) for Large/X-Large, with an overall length of 37 inches (94cm). The ruana style creates a sophisticated layering piece suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Knitting Techniques Used

This project employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques to construct the garment. The pattern utilizes increases created by lifting strands between stitches and working into the back loop, as well as decreases executed through slip, slip, knit methods. The construction involves picking up and knitting stitches along edges to add new sections, and the pattern incorporates stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points. Selvage stitches are worked at edges to facilitate seaming, and the pattern uses chart notation including "no stitch" spaces where stitches have been decreased or not yet made, requiring the knitter to skip over shaded areas while working the active stitches.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The Rambler Ruana employs core knitting stitches and techniques including:

• Knit and purl stitches as foundational elements
• Yarn overs to create new stitches and decorative eyelet details
• Slip stitches for edge finishing and pattern transitions
• Slip, slip, knit decreases for structured shaping
• Make one increases (both knitwise and purlwise) for gradual shaping
• Work even sections maintaining established stitch patterns without increases or decreases

Materials and Tools

The Rambler Ruana is crafted using Noro Bachi yarn in colorway #01. The project requires 5 balls (200g each) for Small/Medium sizing or 6 balls for Large/X-Large sizing. Knitting needles include one pair of size US 13/9mm needles for main fabric construction and one size US 11/8mm circular needle measuring 40 inches (100cm) long for edging and finishing. The pattern also calls for five 1¼-inch (32mm) buttons for closure, along with stitch markers and stitch holders to manage active stitches during construction. The editor recommends using LYKKE needles and hooks for optimal results.