Farro

Farro Long Lace Vest by Elizabeth Smith

Garment Overview

The Farro is a long lace vest designed by Elizabeth Smith as part of her waistcoats collection. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a sophisticated layering piece with lace detailing, available in nine sizes ranging from XS to 4X (finished bust circumference from 35 to 64.5 inches / 89 to 164 cm). The vest is designed with approximately 3-5 inches of positive ease for a comfortable, versatile fit suitable for wearing over various garments.

Knitting Techniques

The Farro employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for beginner-level knitters. The construction utilizes a combination of classic stitch patterns to create both structure and visual interest. Knitters will gain experience with foundational techniques while working through this project, making it an excellent choice for those developing their skills.

Stitch Patterns Used

• Stockinette Stitch (St st): The primary stitch throughout the vest, created by knitting all stitches on right-side rows and purling all stitches on wrong-side rows. This creates the smooth, classic fabric base.
• Garter Stitch: Knit on every row to create a textured, reversible fabric used in specific sections of the pattern.
• Lace Pattern: A decorative lace motif that adds visual sophistication to the design. The pattern is provided in both written and charted formats on page 9 of the PDF for knitter convenience.

Yarn and Materials

The Farro is designed to be worked in worsted-weight yarn, providing excellent stitch definition and relatively quick project completion. Yardage requirements range from approximately 700 yards for the smallest size (XS) to 1,375 yards for the largest size (4X), allowing knitters to select appropriate yarn quantities based on their chosen size. The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette Stitch after blocking, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements.

Pattern Details and Sizing

The pattern includes comprehensive sizing information with nine options to accommodate various body types. Finished bust circumference measurements range from 35 inches (89 cm) for XS through 64.5 inches (164 cm) for 4X. The schematic provided on page 11 of the pattern allows knitters to visualize garment proportions and verify proper fit before beginning. The sample shown in the pattern was knitted in size S (38.5 inches / 98 cm finished bust) with approximately 4.5 inches of positive ease at the bust and 2 inches of positive ease at the hips.

Pattern Support and Resources

Elizabeth Smith provides extensive support materials with the Farro pattern. A dedicated tips page includes video lessons demonstrating techniques used throughout the project. The pattern also features a comprehensive techniques and abbreviations reference on page 10, ensuring knitters have access to clear explanations of all required skills and notation used in the instructions.

Skill Level

Rated as a beginner-level pattern, the Farro is accessible to knitters new to garment construction while remaining engaging for more experienced crafters. The combination of straightforward stitch patterns with the introduction of lace techniques makes this an ideal project for building confidence in garment knitting.