Tahki Yarns Classico Vest Knitting Pattern

Tahki Yarns Classico Vest

What Is Being Made

The Classico Vest is a classic knitted sleeveless garment designed by Rosemary Drysdale. This vest is available in six sizes ranging from Small to 3X, with finished bust measurements from 42½ inches to 62½ inches and lengths from 24 to 26½ inches. The design features a tailored fit suitable for layering over shirts and sweaters, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe.

Techniques Used

This vest is constructed using a bottom-up, worked-flat knitting method, meaning the back and front pieces are knitted separately from the lower edge upward before being assembled. The garment begins with ribbed edging at the hem and neckline, followed by stockinette stitch for the body. The front band is picked up and knitted after the main pieces are complete, using a circular needle to accommodate the large number of stitches. Shoulder shaping is achieved through strategic bind-off decreases, and the neckline is shaped by dividing stitches and working each side separately.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch (St st) – The primary stitch throughout the vest body, created by knitting on right-side rows and purling on wrong-side rows to produce a smooth, classic fabric
• K1, P1 Rib – Used for the lower hem ribbing (16 rows) and the front band (3½ inches), providing elasticity and a finished edge

Materials

The Classico Vest is knitted with Tahki Yarns TARA TWEED, a durable blend of 80% wool and 20% nylon. The yarn is available in two coordinating colorways: color #27 denim tweed (A) for the main body and color #23 indigo tweed (B) for contrast details. Yardage requirements range from 5 to 8 balls of the main color (approximately 610–976 yards total) and 2 to 3 balls of the contrast color (approximately 244–366 yards total), depending on size. Each ball weighs 1.75 ounces and contains 122 yards.

Construction requires size 8 (5mm) needles for the main pieces and a size 8 (5mm) circular needle measuring 32 inches or longer for the front band. Additional supplies include stitch holders, stitch markers, and a yarn needle for finishing.

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 16 stitches and 25 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Checking gauge before beginning is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements. The vest is completed by weaving in all yarn ends for a polished, professional appearance.