Vitis

Vitis E-Reader Cover by Christina Loman

What is Being Made

Vitis is a knitted e-reader cover designed to fit a standard Kindle device. Inspired by the Latin name for wine grapes (Vitis Vinifera), this protective cover features grape leaf and vine motifs, making it an ideal accessory for readers who enjoy wine. The finished cover measures 5.75 inches in width and 8.5 inches in length plus an additional flap for secure closure.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several foundational and decorative techniques. The pattern incorporates a provisional cast-on method, which allows for seamless construction and finishing. Knitters will work with either double-point needles or a circular needle, depending on their preference for working in the round or flat. The cover construction includes a flap design that provides additional protection for the e-reader device.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used throughout Vitis is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric surface ideal for displaying colorwork details. The pattern incorporates colorwork elements featuring the grape leaf and vine design, which are worked using two contrasting yarn colors. The gauge for this project is 17 stitches and 21 rows per 4 inches in stockinette stitch, ensuring proper fit for a standard Kindle device.

Materials and Yarn

Vitis requires two distinct wool yarns in complementary colors:

• Main Color (MC): Patons Classic Wool Merino in Royal Purple; 100% wool; 223 yards per 100g skein; 1 skein required
• Contrast Color (CC): Stonehedge Shepherd's Wool Worsted in Hunter Green; 100% wool; 250 yards per 113g skein; 1 skein required

Tools and Notions

The pattern calls for US #9/5.5mm needles, available as either one set of double-point needles or one 16-inch circular needle, allowing knitters to choose their preferred construction method. Additional notions include split-ring stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, a button approximately 0.5 inch in diameter for closure, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and finishing.

Pattern Details

This downloadable PDF pattern includes standard knitting abbreviations and detailed instructions for executing a provisional cast-on, with resources provided for both crocheted and modified long-tail provisional cast-on methods. The intermediate difficulty level makes Vitis suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle colorwork and shaping techniques.