Tahki Yarns Penelope Vest Knitting Pattern

Tahki Yarns Penelope Vest

Garment Overview

The Penelope Vest is an intermediate-level knitted sleeveless garment designed by Susan Mills. This vest is constructed using a bottom-up seamed method, worked flat on needles. It features a classic fitted silhouette with shaping at the front and sides, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for multiple seasons.

Available Sizes and Measurements

The Penelope Vest is offered in three size ranges: XS/Small, Medium/Large, and XL/2X. The back width measures 20 inches (51 cm) for XS/Small, 24 inches (61 cm) for Medium/Large, and 28 inches (71 cm) for XL/2X. The vest is designed to fit bust measurements of 30–34 inches (76–86.5 cm), 38–42 inches (96.5–106.5 cm), and 46–50 inches (117–127 cm) respectively. The finished length ranges from 27 inches (68.5 cm) in the smallest size to 29 inches (73.5 cm) in the largest size.

Construction Techniques

This vest employs a distinctive construction method that begins with the fronts, working from the bottom up. The back is then worked from the top down, with stitches cast on for the back neck using the cable method. The fronts and back are later seamed together. This approach allows for precise shaping and fit adjustments throughout the knitting process.

The garment features strategic decreasing to create a tapered silhouette. Front shaping includes decreases worked at regular intervals—initially every right-side row, then transitioning to every four rows. Side shaping is incorporated to further refine the fit. The vest includes armhole shaping and a shaped neckline with cast-on stitches for the back neck opening.

Stitch Pattern

The primary stitch used throughout the Penelope Vest is Mistake Stitch Rib, a textured pattern that creates visual interest while maintaining structural integrity. This stitch pattern repeats over a multiple of three stitches and is worked on all rows using the sequence: knit two stitches, purl one stitch, repeated across the row. The mistake stitch rib provides a subtle, sophisticated texture that differs from traditional ribbing, offering a more contemporary aesthetic.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Penelope Vest is knitted using Tahki Yarns Arlington, a premium blend fiber composition. The yarn consists of 50% fine merino wool, 25% superfine alpaca, and 25% acrylic. This fiber combination provides softness, breathability, and durability. Each ball weighs 1.75 ounces (50 grams) and contains 82 yards (75 meters) of yarn. The pattern requires 10 balls for XS/Small, 12 balls for Medium/Large, and 14 balls for XL/2X. The colorway specified is #18 mauve, a sophisticated neutral tone.

Needles and Tools

Construction of the Penelope Vest requires one size 10 (6mm) circular needle measuring 32 inches (80 cm) in length, or a size that achieves the specified gauge. Additional tools needed include a stitch holder for managing stitches during construction and a yarn needle for seaming and weaving in ends.

Gauge

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit. The pattern specifies a gauge of 15 stitches and 22 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when worked in mistake stitch rib. Knitters are strongly encouraged to knit a gauge swatch before beginning the project to ensure their finished vest matches the intended measurements.

Skill Level

The Penelope Vest is rated as an intermediate project, suitable for knitters with experience in basic techniques including casting on, working ribbed patterns, decreasing stitches, and seaming. The construction method and shaping requirements make this an engaging project for knitters looking to develop their skills in garment construction.