Univers Vest Knitting Pattern

Univers Vest in Berroco Renew

What Is Being Made

The Univers Vest is a sleeveless knitted garment designed by Mel Kennelly. This intermediate-level project is constructed as a classic vest with a fitted silhouette, available in nine different sizes ranging from 36" to 72" bust measurement. The finished length varies from approximately 18¼" in the smallest sizes to 24" in the largest, making it suitable for layering over long-sleeve shirts or wearing as a standalone piece during warmer months.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern calls for Berroco Renew, a sustainable yarn option offered in three coordinating colorways. The vest uses a three-color combination featuring:

• #1373 Galah (C1) – 2 to 4 balls depending on size
• #1310 Axolotis (C2) – 2 to 4 balls depending on size
• #1368 Grasshopper (C3) – 3 to 6 balls depending on size

Each ball of Berroco Renew weighs 50 grams. The pattern recommends using the specified yarns to achieve the intended finished measurements and fabric characteristics.

Needles and Notions

Knitters will need two sizes of circular needles to complete this project: size 4 (3.5 mm) needles for ribbing and finishing, and size 6 (4 mm) needles for the main stockinette stitch fabric. A 16" circular needle in size 4 is required for working the neckline and armhole edgings. Additional notions include 2 stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping, plus a tapestry needle for seaming the pieces together and weaving in yarn ends.

Gauge and Fit

The pattern specifies a gauge of 21 stitches and 29 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch using the larger needle size. This gauge is measured after blocking, which is an essential step for achieving accurate finished measurements. The pattern recommends 2 to 4 inches of positive ease for comfortable wear, allowing the vest to drape properly while maintaining its intended shape.

Construction Techniques

The Univers Vest is worked flat in separate pieces and then seamed together, rather than being knitted in the round. This method provides greater control over shaping and color placement. The pattern employs a specific color-changing technique to prevent holes at color transitions: when switching yarns, knitters hold the previous color to the left and pick up the new color from underneath, which twists the yarns together and creates a seamless join.

Shaping is achieved through strategic decreasing. For larger sizes (52" through 72"), the pattern includes a decrease row worked on the right side that uses k3tog (knit three together) and SSSK (slip, slip, slip, knit) decreases positioned symmetrically at the edges (1 stitch in, then 4 stitches from the end) to create a tapered silhouette. These techniques reduce 4 stitches per decrease row while maintaining balanced shaping.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern is stockinette stitch (St st), which creates the smooth, classic knit fabric that forms the body of the vest. Ribbing, likely in a 1x1 or 2x2 pattern, is used for the neckline and armhole edgings to provide elasticity and a finished appearance. The decrease techniques—including k3tog and SSSK—are used strategically for shaping the vest's body.

Skill Level and Pattern Notes

Rated as an intermediate project, the Univers Vest requires knitters to be comfortable with basic shaping techniques, color changes, and seaming. The pattern is provided as a downloadable PDF and has been updated to correct any errors found since its original publication in 2024. Knitters are advised to download the most recent version to ensure they have the correct instructions.