Stacy Charles Fine Yarns Claire V-Neck Tunic Knitting

Stacy Charles Fine Yarns Claire V-Neck Tunic

What is Being Made

The Claire V-Neck Tunic is a knitted pullover sweater designed by Vera Keller-Hum, available in six sizes ranging from Small through 3X. This garment features a classic V-neckline and tunic length proportions, with finished bust measurements ranging from 53½ inches (136 cm) in the smallest size to 73½ inches (186.5 cm) in the largest size. The tunic length varies from 28 inches (71 cm) to 31½ inches (80 cm) depending on the size selected.

Construction Techniques

The Claire V-Neck Tunic employs a bottom-up construction method, meaning the garment is knitted starting from the lower edge and working upward toward the neckline. The pattern utilizes both flat and circular knitting techniques. The main body is worked flat on circular needles, allowing for easy stitch management across the wider garment sections. The neckband is worked in the round using a smaller circular needle to create a finished edge. The garment pieces are seamed together using the Three-Needle Bind-Off technique, which joins two pieces together while simultaneously binding off the stitches for a secure, professional finish.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout this tunic is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric surface. The pattern incorporates cable stitches as a decorative element, adding visual texture and interest to the garment. Shaping is achieved through various decrease and increase techniques, including:

• K2tog (knit 2 together) – a right-leaning decrease worked by knitting two stitches together through the front loops
• Ssk (slip, slip, knit) – a left-leaning decrease created by slipping two stitches knitwise individually, returning them to the left needle in turned position, then knitting them together through the back loops
• M1L (Make 1 left) – a left-leaning increase made by lifting the strand between needles from front to back and knitting through the back loop to prevent holes
• M1R (Make 1 right) – a right-leaning increase created by lifting the strand between needles from back to front and knitting through the front loop

Materials and Tools

The Claire V-Neck Tunic is knitted using Stacy Charles Fine Yarns NINA, a blend of 77% linen and 23% cotton. This fiber composition creates a lightweight, breathable fabric ideal for tunic-weight garments. The yarn is available in color #27 denim. Yardage requirements range from 9 balls (1,224 yards/1,125 meters) for the smallest size to 13 balls (1,768 yards/1,625 meters) for the largest size. Each ball weighs 1.75 ounces (50 grams) and contains 136 yards (125 meters).

The pattern requires two sizes of circular needles: a size 7 (4.5mm) circular needle measuring 29 inches (70 cm) for the main body knitting, and a size 5 (3.75mm) circular needle measuring 29 inches (70 cm) for ribbed sections. An additional size 5 (3.75mm) circular needle measuring 16 inches (40 cm) is used for the neckband. One extra size 7 (4.5mm) needle is required for the Three-Needle Bind-Off joining technique. Additional tools include a cable needle for manipulating cable stitches, stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, stitch holders for temporarily securing stitches, and a yarn needle for weaving in ends and seaming.

Gauge and Sizing Information

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch using the larger size 7 (4.5mm) needle. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished measurements and garment fit. The pattern emphasizes the importance of checking gauge before beginning the project.