Esko Kimono in Blue Sky Fibers Alpaca Silk - 201817 - Downloadable PDF

Esko Kimono Knitting Pattern by Jane Veitenheimer in Blue Sky Fibers Alpaca Silk

The Esko Kimono is a beautifully designed knitted kimono-style wrap created by designer Jane Veitenheimer and published as part of the Blue Sky Fibers Classic Series. Worked in the luxuriously soft Blue Sky Fibers Alpaca Silk yarn, this pattern produces a garment with stunning striping and an elegant drape that transitions effortlessly from casual to dressy occasions. The butter-soft silk blend ensures the finished kimono is comfortable and easy to wear, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a kimono-style wrap garment, categorized among capes and ponchos in its construction approach. The Esko Kimono is designed for women's sizing and is available in three size options:

• XS/S: Length 22½", Width 28¾"
• M/L: Length 23¼", Width 31¼"
• XL/XXL: Length 24", Width 33¾"

Instructions are written for the smallest size, with larger sizes given in parentheses. The finished piece features striking two-color striping that gives it visual interest and a sophisticated aesthetic, while the relaxed kimono silhouette ensures a flattering, wearable fit across a range of body types.

Difficulty Level

The pattern is rated Advanced Beginner, making it an excellent project for knitters who have moved beyond the very basics and are ready to explore simple shaping and two-color stripe work. The straightforward construction and limited stitch repertoire keep the project approachable, while the striping adds just enough interest to keep experienced beginners engaged throughout.

Techniques Used

The Esko Kimono employs a focused set of knitting techniques that are well-suited to an advanced beginner skill level:

• Stripe knitting using two contrasting colors of yarn for visual impact
• Garter stitch construction, which creates a dense, textured fabric with excellent drape
• 1x1 ribbing, used for structured sections of the garment
• Three-needle bind-off, a technique used to join live stitches together cleanly, creating a neat seam without sewing
• Working with a circular needle to accommodate the width of the piece
• Use of a stitch holder to hold stitches in reserve while other sections are worked

Stitches Used

The primary stitch patterns featured in the Esko Kimono are:

• Garter stitch — knitting every row on both right and wrong sides, producing a ridged, reversible fabric with natural elasticity and beautiful drape. Garter stitch is ideal for kimono-style garments because it lies flat and does not curl at the edges.
• 1x1 rib — an alternating knit one, purl one pattern that creates a stretchy, textured fabric often used at cuffs, hems, or necklines to add structure and a polished finish.

Gauge

Achieving correct gauge is important for obtaining the intended finished measurements. The pattern specifies two gauge references:

• Garter stitch: 20 stitches and 46 rows = 4 inches
• 1x1 rib: 22 stitches and 33 rows = 4 inches

Materials: Yarn, Needles, and Tools

The pattern is designed specifically for use with Blue Sky Fibers Alpaca Silk yarn, a sport weight yarn in a 50g/146-yard skein. The fiber content is a luxurious blend of 50% Alpaca and 50% Silk, which gives the finished kimono its characteristic softness, subtle sheen, and fluid drape. The colorway shown in the pattern features two colors:

• Color A: No. 100 Slate — a