Lana Vest

Lana Vest by Irene Lin

What is Being Made

The Lana Vest is a sleeveless waistcoat designed for intermediate knitters. This fitted garment features a classic V-neck construction and is available in five graduated sizes. The vest measures between 59 and 68 centimeters (23.25 to 26.75 inches) in length, depending on size selected, with a recommended positive ease of 15 to 30 centimeters (6 to 11.75 inches) for comfortable wear.

Construction Techniques

The Lana Vest employs a strategic multi-stage construction method that combines flat and circular knitting techniques. The garment begins with the back piece, which is knitted flat from the top down to the base of the armholes. Both front pieces are then picked up and knitted separately in a top-down approach, working from the neckline to the base of the V-neck edges.

Once the front and back pieces reach the appropriate length, they are joined together and the remainder of the vest is worked in the round from the armhole to the hem. This transition from flat knitting to circular knitting creates a seamless construction for the body of the garment. The pattern includes stitch charts on pages 13 through 17 that are designed to complement the written row-by-row instructions and should be read in conjunction with them.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used in the Lana Vest is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric surface. The pattern incorporates charted stitch patterns that add visual interest and texture to the design. These charts provide visual guidance for color work or texture variations and must be followed alongside the written instructions for accurate construction.

Yarn and Needles

The Lana Vest is designed for aran weight yarn, which is a medium-weight yarn suitable for creating structured, durable garments. The recommended gauge is 18 stitches and 24 rows per 10 by 10 centimeters (4 by 4 inches) when worked in stockinette stitch and measured after blocking. Knitters should verify their personal gauge and adjust needle size accordingly to ensure proper fit and finished measurements.

Sizing and Fit Details

• Available in five sizes: 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5
• V-neck depth: 18 centimeters (7 inches)
• Length range: 59 to 68 centimeters (23.25 to 26.75 inches)
• Armhole circumference: 46 to 52 centimeters (18 to 20 inches)
• Recommended ease: 15 to 30 centimeters (6 to 11.75 inches)
• Sample garment shown in size 2 with 30 centimeters (11.75 inches) positive ease

Difficulty Level

The Lana Vest is rated as an intermediate knitting project. Knitters should be comfortable with basic knitting techniques, reading charts, managing multiple stitches on needles, and transitioning between flat and circular knitting methods.