Rowan Brett Waistcoat Knitting Pattern

Rowan Brett Waistcoat by Martin Storey

What is Being Made

The Rowan Brett is a knitted waistcoat designed by Martin Storey, available in six sizes to fit chest measurements from 81-86 cm up to 132-137 cm. This garment is worked as a classic sleeveless vest with structured armholes, shoulder shaping, and a finished neckline, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions.

Techniques Used

This waistcoat is constructed using bottom-up knitting, meaning the garment is worked from the lower edge upward. The pattern features horizontal stripes throughout, which are maintained consistently during all shaping operations including armhole decreases, shoulder shaping, and neckline work. The pieces are worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for traditional seaming and finishing.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used is stockinette stitch (st st), which creates the smooth, classic fabric base for the striped design. Shaping is achieved through strategic cast-offs at armholes and shoulders, and decreases worked at each end of rows to create tapered armholes. The neckline incorporates knit-two-together decreases (K2tog) to shape the front neck opening smoothly. A neckband is worked separately using stitches held on a holder, providing a finished edge.

Materials

The Brett waistcoat is designed to be worked in Rowan Denim Revive, a specialty yarn that offers authentic denim coloring and texture. Two colorways are specified: A Night (shade 213) and B Bluewash (shade 211), creating the horizontal stripe pattern. Yarn requirements vary by size, ranging from 5 to 9 balls of the A Night shade and 4 to 6 balls of the Bluewash shade, with each ball weighing 50 grams.

The pattern calls for two pairs of needles: 3¼mm (US 3) needles and 3¾mm (US 5) needles, as well as a 3¼mm circular needle no longer than 50 cm for working the neckband. The tension is set at 22 stitches and 29 rows over 10 centimeters when measured in stockinette stitch using the 3¾mm needles, ensuring proper fit and drape.

Pattern Features

• Six size options accommodating chest measurements from 32-34 inches to 52-54 inches
• Structured armhole shaping with initial cast-offs followed by graduated decreases
• Shoulder shaping worked over multiple rows for a professional finish
• Back neck and front neck shaping for comfortable wear
• Consistent stripe maintenance throughout all shaping sequences
• Finished garment chest measurements ranging from 90 cm to 141 cm