Shibui Knits Areca Vest Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits Areca Vest

What is Being Made

The Areca Vest is a tunic-length, open-front vest designed to refine warm weather wardrobes. Created by designer Shellie Anderson, this garment features feminine curved hemming and clean lines that elevate summer comfort to lasting style. The vest is worked as a single piece from the bottom up, making it an efficient construction method for this layering essential.

Techniques Used

Areca employs several sophisticated knitting techniques suited to experienced knitters. The vest is worked flat on circular needles, constructed bottom-up from the cast-on edge upward. The pattern incorporates a Lateral Braid stitch detail, which is established in the opening rows of the hem section and worked as instructed throughout. Additional refinements include slipped stitch edgings at the front openings and armholes, creating a polished finish. The vest also features a narrow shawl collar, adding a contemporary design element.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout most of the garment is Stockinette Stitch (St st), which creates a smooth, classic fabric. The Lateral Braid technique adds textural interest and visual movement to the hem. Slipped stitches are used strategically at the front and armhole edges to create clean, refined borders. The pattern also incorporates basic shaping techniques including increases and decreases for the side seams and front edge shaping to achieve the vest's tailored silhouette.

Materials

Areca is knit using two premium yarns held together in combination. Shibui Knits Twig, a blend of 46% Linen, 42% Recycled Silk, and 12% Wool (190 yards per 50-gram skein), provides structure and a subtle sheen. Shibui Knits Fern, 100% Organic Cotton (232 yards per 50-gram skein), adds breathability and a matte finish. The lower border hem is worked with two strands of Twig held together, while the remainder of the vest combines one strand each of Twig and Fern. Yardage requirements range from 5 to 7 skeins of Twig and 3 to 4 skeins of Fern depending on size. The garment is worked on size 9 (5.5 mm) circular needles measuring 32 inches or longer, with additional tools including stitch markers, stitch holders, and a tapestry needle for finishing.

Pattern Specifications

• Sizes: XS (S, M, M/L, L, XL, XXL) to fit bust 32.5 (34.5, 36.5, 38.5, 40.5, 44.5, 48.5)"
• Finished Bust Circumference: 36.5 (38.5, 39.5, 41.5, 43, 47, 51.5)"
• Back Length: 33.5 (34, 34.25, 35, 35, 35.25, 35.5)" from shoulder
• Gauge: 17 stitches and 22 rows = 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch after blocking, measured with one strand each of Fern and Twig held together on size 9 needles
• Skill Level: Experienced
• Ease: Approximately 4 inches positive ease

Design Features

The Areca Vest showcases a modern aesthetic through its combination of matte cotton and silky sheen, creating sophisticated visual contrast. The feminine curved hem is a signature design element that adds movement and contemporary flair. The open front design with slipped stitch edgings creates clean, refined borders, while the narrow shawl collar provides a polished neckline finish. The tunic length and structured shaping make this vest versatile for layering over summer dresses, tanks, or lightweight tops, extending its styling possibilities throughout the season.