Vest in Hayfield Soft Twist - 10334 - Downloadable PDF

Roll Neck Vest in Hayfield Soft Twist DK

What is Being Made

This is a Roll Neck Vest (also known as a sleeveless pullover or slipover) designed by Sirdar using Hayfield Soft Twist yarn. The vest features a distinctive rolled neckline and is available in six sizes ranging from 81cm to 137cm chest measurement (32" to 54"), making it suitable for a wide range of body sizes from small to triple extra large. The garment includes a button front closure with six buttons for easy wearing and adjustment.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting pattern employs several key techniques to create structure and visual interest. The primary construction method uses Half Fisherman's Rib stitch (referenced as s7493), which is a textured stitch pattern that creates a dense, elastic fabric with excellent drape and recovery. This technique is particularly valued in knitwear for providing warmth and shape retention without excessive bulk. The pattern requires working with two different needle sizes to achieve proper tension and fabric characteristics—larger needles for the main body and smaller needles for ribbed sections, which is a standard approach in professional knitwear design.

Stitches Used

• Half Fisherman's Rib (s7493) – The primary stitch pattern used throughout the vest, creating a textured, three-dimensional fabric
• Ribbing – Used in conjunction with smaller needles (3¼mm) to create elastic edges and finishing details
• Stocking Stitch elements – Incorporated as part of the Half Fisherman's Rib construction for smooth, refined sections

Materials Required

The vest is designed to be knitted using Hayfield Soft Twist double knitting (DK) weight yarn in shade 260 Navy. The yardage requirements vary by size: smaller sizes (S and M) require 3-4 balls of 100g yarn, while medium to larger sizes (L through XXXL) require 4-5 balls. The yarn weight is DK (double knitting), which is a medium-weight yarn suitable for creating garments with good stitch definition and drape.

Knitting needles required include one pair of 4mm needles (UK size 8 / USA size 6) for the main fabric and one pair of 3¼mm needles (UK size 10 / USA size 3) for ribbed sections and edge finishing. Additionally, stitch holders are needed to manage stitches during construction, and the pattern specifies six Sirdar Elegant Buttons (Code B5611-0523) for the front button closure.

Sizing and Finished Measurements

The pattern provides six graduated sizes with the following finished chest measurements: Size S (81/86cm or 32/34"), Size M (91/97cm or 36/38"), Size L (102/107cm or 40/42"), Size XL (112/117cm or 44/46"), Size XXL (122/127cm or 48/50"), and Size XXXL (132/137cm or 52/54"). Full length measurements range from 54cm (21¼") for the smallest size to 64cm (25¼") for the largest size, ensuring appropriate proportions across all size ranges.

Tension and Construction Notes

The pattern specifies a tension of 19 stitches over 10cm (4 inches) when working Half Fisherman's Rib on 4mm needles, with 36 rows measuring 10cm in length. Achieving correct tension is essential for obtaining the finished measurements and proper garment fit. The intermediate difficulty level indicates that knitters should have experience with texture stitches and shaping techniques before undertaking this project.