Shibui Knits Aurora Vest Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits Aurora Reversible Vest

What is Being Made

The Aurora is a reversible vest designed by Shellie Anderson for Shibui Knits. This intermediate-level knitting project features a unique button loop closure at the neck and can be worn with the opening positioned either in the front or back, offering versatility in styling. The vest is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to XXL, with finished bust circumferences from 34.25 inches to 50.25 inches.

Techniques Used

This vest is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, making it an excellent project for knitters who prefer traditional flat construction. The pattern employs several key techniques:

• Flat construction from the bottom up: The body is knitted as a single piece from the lower edge to the armholes in stockinette stitch
• Divided shaping at armholes: Work is divided at the armholes to shape the fronts and back separately, allowing for precise fit and tailoring
• 3-Needle Bind-Off: This technique is used to join shoulders with a clean, professional finish
• I-cord edging: Decorative and functional i-cord casings are applied to the lower edge, front edges, neck edge, and button loop, providing clean definition and structural integrity to the garment edges

Stitches Used

The Aurora primarily features stockinette stitch (St st), which creates the smooth, classic fabric base. This stitch is worked over the main body and provides an elegant canvas for the yarn combination. The pattern also incorporates i-cord, a tubular knit cord that serves both decorative and functional purposes throughout the design, grounding the edges with clean, defined lines.

Materials and Yarn

This pattern calls for two complementary Shibui Knits yarns held together as one:

• Shibui Knits Cima: A luxurious blend of 70% Superbaby Alpaca and 30% Fine Merino, offering 328 yards per 50-gram skein. Three to four skeins are required depending on size
• Shibui Knits Linen: 100% pure linen providing structure and breathability, with 246 yards per 50-gram skein. Three to four skeins are required depending on size

The combination of one strand of Cima and one strand of Linen held together creates a soft, blended fabric with excellent drape and a subtle texture. For the i-cord edging and casings, two strands of Cima are held together, providing definition and visual contrast.

Needles and Tools

The Aurora requires the following needles and notions:

• Size 4 (3.5 mm) needles for ribbing or edging
• Size 6 (4 mm) needles for the main body (the primary needle size for achieving the correct gauge)
• Spare size 6 needle for executing the 3-Needle Bind-Off
• Optional size 6 double-pointed needles (dpns) for i-cord edging work
• Stitch holders for managing stitches during shaping
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and finishing
• One ¾-inch button for the neck closure

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 22 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch after blocking, using one strand each of Cima and Linen held together on size 6 needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit, as the vest is designed with specific ease built in. The model, standing 5'7", is pictured wearing a Size S with 1.75 inches of positive ease, demonstrating the intended fit of the garment.