Valley Yarns Nonpareil Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Nonpareil Knitted Waistcoat

What Is Being Made

The Nonpareil is a long knitted waistcoat (or sleeveless topper) designed by Julie Turjoman as a versatile capsule wardrobe piece suitable for three-season wear. This garment features a deep V-neck and single button closure, with a flowing mid-thigh length that skims the figure. The design includes optional patch pockets for added functionality. Available in sizes XS through 4XL, the finished bust measurements range from 34¾ inches to 62¾ inches with 6 to 8 inches of positive ease for comfortable wear. The length varies from 31 inches to 35½ inches depending on size, making it a flattering layering piece that works equally well over casual jeans and a t-shirt or with a date night dress.

Knitting Techniques

The Nonpareil is constructed using a bottom-up approach, meaning knitters begin at the lower edge and work upward toward the neckline. The garment is worked flat on circular needles, creating individual pieces that are later seamed together. This construction method provides excellent control over shaping and allows for the clean, classic lines characteristic of this design. The A-line decrease shaping creates the tapered silhouette by strategically decreasing stitches at marked positions to achieve the flattering fit.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout the Nonpareil is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a subtle texture. The pattern employs fundamental knitting decreases including ssk (slip, slip, knit) and k2tog (knit two together) to shape the garment. Stitch markers are used to denote decrease points and pattern sections, helping knitters maintain accuracy during the shaping rows. The straightforward stitch pattern makes this an ideal project for beginner-level knitters who have mastered basic knit and purl stitches.

Materials and Yarn

The Nonpareil is designed to showcase Valley Yarns Goshen, a premium blend yarn composed of 48% Peruvian cotton, 46% modal, and 6% silk. This fiber combination provides wonderful drape and a subtle sheen, essential qualities for a garment meant to skim the figure elegantly. The yardage requirements range from 9 skeins for size XS to 19 skeins for size 4XL, with each skein containing 92 yards and weighing 50 grams. The sample shown is knitted in Bermuda Blue.

Needles and Notions

Knitters will need US size 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles in both 16-inch and 24-40 inch lengths for the main fabric, worked at a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch when blocked. US size 5 (3.75 mm) circular needles in the same lengths are used for ribbed edgings or cuff sections. Additional materials include stitch markers for tracking decreases, stitch holders for holding stitches temporarily, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and a 1-inch diameter button for the closure. A sewing needle and matching thread (or yarn) are needed to attach the button securely.

Skill Level and Construction Notes

Classified as a beginner project, the Nonpareil is accessible to knitters new to garment construction. The straightforward stockinette stitch base, combined with simple decrease shaping and seamed construction, makes this an excellent introduction to knitting a structured, wearable garment. The pattern includes clear abbreviations and instructions, with optional patch pocket instructions provided for those seeking to customize their finished piece. The downloadable PDF format allows knitters to reference the pattern on digital devices or print it for convenient reference while working.