Eloise Plus - Fisherman’s Rib, cross front Vest

Eloise Plus - Fisherman's Rib Cross Front Vest

Garment Overview

The Eloise Plus is a tunic-length knitted vest designed by Jennifer Lee that combines warmth with flattering style. Featuring open front panels and a cross-front construction, this slipover provides coverage for the back and chest while allowing unrestricted movement through its open design. The garment is available in extended sizes from 2XL to 5XL, with bust measurements ranging from 120cm to 150cm (47¼ to 59 inches) and a tunic length between 78cm and 81cm (30½ to 32 inches).

Stitch Technique

Fisherman's Rib is the primary stitch used throughout this vest. This textured stitch creates a distinctive appearance with excellent elasticity and stretch, making it ideal for a close-fitting garment that maintains its shape. The fisherman's rib technique provides both visual interest and functional warmth, as the stitch structure traps air for insulation. The pattern is worked at a tension of 18 stitches and 37 rows over 10cm (4 inches) using 4.50mm needles.

Construction Method

The Eloise Plus is constructed as a knitted slipover with careful attention to yarn joining placement. A key construction note specifies that new balls of yarn should be joined at the side edges rather than the front edges, as the vest features no front bands. This technique ensures clean, inconspicuous joins and maintains the open front aesthetic of the design.

Materials Required

• Yarn: Knoll Coast in DK weight (50g balls at 117 meters per ball). Quantities range from 16 balls for size 2XL to 20 balls for size 5XL, with intermediate sizes requiring 18-19 balls. The pattern notes that yarn quantities may vary depending on individual knitting tension and yarn characteristics.
• Needles: One pair of 4.50mm knitting needles (UK size 7, US size 7), plus a wool needle for sewing seams during finishing.
• Notions: Two stitch holders for managing stitches during construction.

Skill Level

Rated as Easy in pattern difficulty, the Eloise Plus is classified as an intermediate knitting project. This rating reflects the straightforward construction despite the use of fisherman's rib, making it accessible to knitters with foundational skills who are ready to explore textured stitches.

Design Features

The cross-front design creates a flattering silhouette while the open front panels provide styling versatility. The tunic length offers extended coverage, and the fisherman's rib stitch provides substantial stretch and recovery, ensuring the vest maintains its shape through wear and washing. The absence of front bands contributes to the modern, streamlined aesthetic of this slipover design.