Wildflowerknits Susan Vest Knitting Pattern

Wildflowerknits Susan Vest

What is Being Made

Susan is a stranded colorwork knit vest designed by Kennita Tully. This intermediate-level project is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to 3X, with finished chest measurements from 34.75 inches to 58.75 inches and finished length ranging from 21.75 inches to 25.5 inches. The vest features a decorative motif worked using stranded colorwork techniques and includes five functional pockets distributed across the garment.

Techniques Used

This vest is constructed using several key knitting techniques. The garment is worked flat on circular needles and then seamed together, rather than being worked in the round. The construction follows a bottom-up approach, meaning the knitter begins at the lower edge and works upward toward the armholes and neckline. The primary design element is stranded colorwork, a technique where two colors of yarn are carried across the back of the work to create a patterned motif on the front. The vest includes both visible patch pockets and hidden pockets integrated at the side seams, adding functional design elements to the garment.

Stitches Used

The foundation stitch for this vest is Stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a knit side facing outward. The pattern instructions include both written instructions and charts for the stranded colorwork motif, allowing knitters to follow their preferred method. The hem is constructed using a provisional cast-on technique with waste yarn, which is later picked up and grafted to create a finished, folded hem edge. The vest features a button band, with five to six buttons (depending on size) used for closure.

Materials

The Susan vest is designed to be knit with Stolen Stitches "Nua" yarn, a premium blend containing 60% merino wool, 20% yak, and 20% linen. This fiber composition creates a garment with excellent drape, breathability, and durability. The yardage required varies by size: XS, S, and M require 3 balls of the main color, while L and 1X require 4 balls, and 2X and 3X require 5 balls. Each ball contains 153 yards and weighs 50 grams. The pattern calls for three colors: the main color (MC) in shade #9802 Frog on the Wall, contrast color 1 (CC1) in shade #9805 Cappall Knit, and contrast color 2 (CC2) in shade #9807 Angry Monkey. One ball each of the two contrast colors is required for all sizes.

The vest is worked on three sizes of US circular needles: US5 (3.75mm), US4 (3.5mm), and US3 (3.25mm), all in 36-inch length. The pattern specifies that the appropriate needle size should be selected to obtain the correct gauge. Additional notions include stitch holders, stitch markers, a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends, and waste yarn for the provisional cast-on technique. Five to six buttons measuring 3/4 inch in diameter are required for closure, depending on the finished size.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) when worked in Stockinette stitch. Checking gauge before beginning the project is essential to ensure the finished vest matches the intended measurements. The pattern provides detailed finished measurements for all seven sizes, including chest width at the underarm, total length, and armhole depth, allowing knitters to select the size that best suits their needs.