Seashell Waistcoat Knitting Pattern

Seashell Waistcoat in Rowan Cotton Glace

What is Being Made

The Seashell Waistcoat is a knitted sleeveless garment designed by Chloe Thurlow. This intermediate-level project creates a fitted waistcoat available in nine sizes to fit bust measurements ranging from 71–76 cm (28–30 in) up to 152–147 cm (60–62 in), with corresponding actual garment bust measurements from 87 cm (34¼ in) to 167 cm (65¾ in). The waistcoat features a classic vest silhouette with structured shaping and decorative lace patterning throughout.

Techniques Used

This intermediate knitting project employs several key techniques to create its distinctive appearance. Lace knitting forms the primary decorative element, achieved through strategic yarn-over and decrease sequences that create openwork patterns. Stockinette stitch provides the main fabric base, creating a smooth, refined surface. Ribbed edging in a one-by-one rib pattern frames the front opening and armholes, offering elasticity and a polished finish. Shaping is accomplished through increases worked at side seams using make-one stitches (M1L and M1R), which are seamlessly integrated into the stockinette sections. The pattern incorporates stitch markers to clearly denote important structural points, particularly at side seam beginnings. Button bands are constructed as part of the ribbed edging system, with five small buttons providing closure.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K) – the fundamental stitch creating the smooth stockinette fabric
• Purl (P) – used in ribbed edging and as part of the lace pattern sequences
• Yarn-over (yo) – creates the openwork holes characteristic of the lace design
• Knit two together (K2tog) – a right-leaning decrease used throughout the lace motifs
• Slip, knit, pass slipped stitch over (sl 1, K1, psso) – a left-leaning decrease that balances the K2tog decreases in the lace pattern
• Make-one left (M1L) and make-one right (M1R) – invisible increase stitches used for shaping at side seams

Materials

The Seashell Waistcoat is knitted using Rowan Cotton Glace, a lightweight cotton yarn supplied in 50-gram balls. The pattern requires 6 to 12 balls depending on size, with the photographed samples shown in the colorways Ochre 833 and Bleached 726. Two pairs of needles are required: 3 mm (US 2/3) needles for ribbed edging and initial cast-on, and 3¼ mm (US 3) needles for the main body fabric. Additional notions include stitch holders for securing stitches during construction, stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, and five small buttons for the front closure. The pattern specifies a tension of 23 stitches and 32 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) over stockinette stitch, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements.