Grace Camisole

Grace Camisole by Therese Chynoweth

What is Being Made

The Grace Camisole is a close-fitting knitted sleeveless top designed by Therese Chynoweth. This intermediate-level knitting project is available in six sizes ranging from XS to 2XL, with finished bust measurements from 29½ inches [75 cm] to 51¼ inches [130 cm] and lengths from 20 inches [51 cm] to 23½ inches [59.5 cm]. The camisole is designed to fit with 0–1 inch [0–2.5 cm] of positive ease, making it a fitted garment suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone piece.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate knitting project employs several fundamental and intermediate techniques. The pattern is constructed using circular needles, which allows for seamless knitting in the round. The instructions are written for the smallest size with larger sizes provided in parentheses throughout, a common method for grading multiple sizes in a single pattern. The camisole construction utilizes stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points, and stitch holders to manage stitches during armhole and neckline shaping. Cable needle work is incorporated into the design, indicating the presence of cable stitches that add textural interest and visual depth to the finished garment.

Stitches and Stitch Work

While specific stitch abbreviations are not detailed in the provided pattern excerpt, the inclusion of a cable needle in the notions list indicates that cable stitches are a key component of the Grace Camisole design. Cable work is a classic knitting technique that creates twisted, rope-like textures by crossing groups of stitches over one another. This intermediate-level stitch work adds structural interest and visual complexity to what would otherwise be a simple fitted camisole shape.

Yarn and Materials

The Grace Camisole is designed for sport weight yarn (also classified as Fine #2 weight). The sample shown uses Berroco Quechua, a premium blend consisting of 60% extrafine merino wool, 20% baby alpaca, and 20% yak fiber. This fiber combination creates a yarn with excellent elasticity, warmth, and a soft hand. Berroco Quechua is spun at 164 yards [150 m] per 1¾ oz [50 g] hank. Yardage requirements range from 449 yards [411 m] for the smallest size to 836 yards [764 m] for the largest size, requiring between 3 and 6 hanks depending on the finished size.

Needles and Notions

Construction requires US 4 [3.5 mm] circular needles in two lengths: a 16-inch [40 cm] needle for working smaller circumferences such as necklines and armholes, and a 32-inch [80 cm] needle for working the body of the garment. Circular needles of the appropriate size are essential for seamless, in-the-round knitting construction. Additional notions include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping, stitch holders for securing stitches during construction, a cable needle for executing cable stitches, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and finishing the garment.