Kendal

Kendal Waistcoat by Pat Menchini

What is Being Made

The Kendal is a knitted waistcoat designed by Pat Menchini, available in five size options to fit chest measurements from 91-97 cm (36-38 inches) up to 132-137 cm (52-54 inches). This intermediate-level knitting project creates a fitted garment with an actual chest measurement of approximately 104-142 cm depending on size selection. The waistcoat features button front closures and is designed to sit at varying lengths to shoulder shaping, ranging from 65-70 cm (25½-27½ inches) depending on the chosen size.

Yarn and Materials

The Kendal waistcoat is constructed using West Yorkshire Spinners The Croft Shetland Tweed Aran yarn in shade 798 Hillswick. This aran-weight yarn provides 166 metres (182 yards) per 100g hank. Depending on the size selected, the pattern requires between 7 to 9 hanks of yarn, with exact yardage varying by garment size. The project also requires two pairs of knitting needles—4 mm (UK 8, US 6) needles and 5 mm (UK 6, US 8) needles—along with 2 stitch holders and 7 buttons to complete the garment.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate knitting project employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for crafters with some experience. The pattern utilizes knit and purl stitches as core construction elements, which form the basis of the stitch pattern throughout the waistcoat. The use of two different needle sizes—the smaller 4 mm needles and larger 5 mm needles—allows for gauge control and creates different fabric densities within the design. Stitch holders are used to manage active stitches during shaping and construction phases, a standard technique for waistcoat and garment construction.

Tension and Gauge

Achieving the correct tension is essential for this project. The pattern specifies a tension of 22 stitches and 22½ rows over 10 cm (4 inches) when working with the 5 mm needles over the pattern stitch. Knitters are advised to test their tension before beginning the full project. If the test swatch proves too loose, a finer needle should be substituted; conversely, if the tension is too tight, a larger needle should be used. This tension-matching approach ensures the finished waistcoat achieves the intended measurements and proper fit.

Pattern Details

• Five size options accommodating chest measurements from 36-38 inches to 52-54 inches
• Actual finished chest measurements ranging from 41 inches to 56¼ inches
• Length to shoulder shaping varies from 25½ inches to 27½ inches by size
• Button-front closure with seven buttons
• Intermediate difficulty level suitable for knitters with foundational skills