Valley Yarns Thorn Tweed Vest Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Thorn Tweed Vest

What Is Being Made

The Thorn Tweed Vest is a classic sleeveless pullover garment designed by Kirsten Hipsky. This intermediate-level knitting project features a sophisticated slip-stitch colorwork pattern and is available in six finished sizes ranging from 32 inches to 52 inches in circumference, making it suitable for a wide range of body types.

Construction Method

This vest is constructed using a bottom-up approach, meaning knitting begins at the lower edge and progresses upward toward the neckline. The pattern employs seamless construction worked in the round for portions of the garment, which reduces finishing work and creates a more polished final product. The back and front pieces are worked with shaping at the armholes, and shoulder seams are sewn together to complete the garment structure.

Stitch Techniques and Pattern Details

The vest showcases the Thorn Pattern, a beautiful slip-stitch colorwork design that creates a textured, dimensional appearance. This pattern works over a multiple of 4 stitches plus 1 and repeats over 8 rows, alternating between two colors throughout.

• Thorn Pattern stitches: The pattern incorporates yarn overs (yo), knit 2 together (k2tog), slip stitches (sl), and slip, slip, knit (ssk) decreases to create the characteristic thorn-like texture
• Color work: The pattern alternates between two colors of Valley Yarns Deerfield—Periwinkle (Color A) and Navy (Color B)—creating visual interest and depth
• Ribbing: The vest begins with 2 inches of knit 2, purl 2 (k2, p2) ribbing at the lower edge for a fitted, elastic finish
• Stockinette stitch: Used in sections where gauge is measured at 5.5 stitches per inch

Materials and Tools Required

This project uses Valley Yarns Deerfield, a luxury yarn blend composed of 80% Baby Alpaca and 20% Silk. The yardage requirements vary by size: smaller sizes (32–40 inches) require 2–3 skeins each of Periwinkle and Navy, while larger sizes (44–52 inches) require 4–5 skeins each color. Each skein contains 109 yards and weighs 50 grams.

Knitting is worked on US size 5 (3.75mm) needles, which may be straight needles and/or 16-inch circular needles depending on the knitter's preference and the construction phase. The pattern specifies that needle size should be adjusted as needed to achieve the correct gauge.

Gauge and Sizing

Achieving proper gauge is essential for this project. The Thorn Pattern gauge is 24 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches, while Stockinette Stitch gauge measures 5.5 stitches per inch. Six finished sizes accommodate different measurements: 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, and 52 inches.

Skill Level

This vest is classified as an intermediate knitting project, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle colorwork, shaping, and more complex stitch patterns. The combination of slip-stitch colorwork, decreases, yarn overs, and garment shaping requires attention to detail and pattern-reading ability.