Ribbed Pullover Vest

Ribbed Pullover Vest by Hannah Fettig

What is Being Made

The Ribbed Pullover Vest is a versatile sleeveless garment designed by Hannah Fettig and available in an extensive range of sizes from Girl's 2T through Women's XXL. This pullover vest features a classic construction with ribbed detailing and is suitable for both children and adults. The finished measurements range from 23" bust for the smallest size to 52" bust for the largest size, with corresponding length adjustments from 12" to 24" depending on the size selected.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to create its finished structure. The vest is constructed using circular needles for the main body work, utilizing both 24-32" circular needles and 16" circular needles depending on the section being worked. The pattern incorporates ribbed stitch patterns as a primary design element, which creates vertical texture and elasticity throughout the garment. Increases and decreases are strategically placed to shape the vest, using techniques such as M1L (make one left) and M1R (make one right) increases for invisible shaping, as well as k2tog (knit two together) and p2tog (purl two together) decreases for tailored construction.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch (St st) – the primary stitch used throughout the garment, providing a smooth, classic fabric base
• Ribbed Stitches – vertical knit and purl combinations that create the distinctive textured appearance and provide stretch
• k2tog (knit two together) – a right-leaning decrease used for shaping
• p2tog (purl two together) – a decrease worked on the purl side
• M1L and M1R (make one increases) – invisible increases created by lifting the bar between stitches, used for seamless shaping

Materials and Specifications

The Ribbed Pullover Vest is designed to be worked in worsted weight or aran weight yarn. The pattern sample shown in Women's S was created using The Fibre Company Road to China Worsted, a luxury blend composed of 65% Baby Alpaca, 10% Cashmere, 10% Camel, and 15% Silk. This yarn is available in 50-gram skeins with 69 yards per skein. Yardage requirements range from 4 skeins for the smallest sizes (Girl's 2T and 4T) to 9 skeins for the largest size (Women's XXL).

The pattern calls for US 7 (4.5mm) circular needles in 24-32" length for ribbing and initial setup, and US 8 (5mm) circular needles in 24-32" length for the main body work in stockinette stitch. A set of 5 double-pointed needles (dpns) in US 7 size is also required for working smaller circumferences. Additional supplies needed include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, stitch holders for temporarily securing stitches, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends.

Gauge and Fit

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 18 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches (10cm) in stockinette stitch using the larger US 8 (5mm) needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the finished measurements specified in the pattern, ensuring proper fit across the extensive size range offered.