Woman's Waistcoats in Hayfield Bonus Aran - 8099 - Downloadable PDF

Woman's Waistcoats in Hayfield Bonus Aran

What is Being Made

This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for knitting woman's waistcoats in Hayfield Bonus Aran yarn. The pattern includes two distinct designs: a classic waistcoat and a buttoned waistcoat variation. Both styles are available in six size options, ranging from 81/86cm to 132/137cm bust measurements (32/34 inches to 52/54 inches), making this pattern suitable for a wide range of body sizes. The waistcoats feature a full length measurement range from 70cm to 83cm (27½ to 32¾ inches), providing versatile styling options for different preferences and proportions.

Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level knitting project utilizes several traditional knitting techniques to create structured, professional-looking garments. The waistcoats are constructed using cable knit patterns combined with ridge stitch detailing, which adds visual interest and texture to the finished pieces. The cable pattern panel is a featured element, measuring 5.5cm (2¼ inches) across 16 stitches. The construction method involves working to a specific tension to ensure proper fit across the six available sizes, with actual measurements ranging from 90cm to 143cm (35½ to 56¼ inches) to accommodate different ease preferences.

Stitches Used

The primary stitches featured in this pattern include:

• Cable stitch – used in the decorative cable pattern panels that form a key design element
• Ridge stitch – the main background stitch used throughout the body of the waistcoat, providing texture and structure

The ridge pattern is worked at a tension of 23 stitches and 23 rows to 10cm (4 inches) on 5mm needles, ensuring consistent fabric density and proper garment sizing.

Materials and Tools Required

Yarn: The pattern calls for Hayfield Bonus Aran yarn in two colorway options. For the classic waistcoat, shade 672 is used, requiring 1 to 2 balls of 400g depending on size (45cm to 71.5cm width, or 17¾ to 28 inches). For the buttoned waistcoat variation, shade 936 is specified, requiring 2 balls of 400g yarn for all six sizes. The pattern notes that Hayfield Bonus Aran Tweed is also suitable as an alternative yarn option. Aran weight yarn is ideal for creating structured garments with good stitch definition and drape.

Needles and Notions: Knitters will need one pair of 5mm (UK size 6 / USA size 8) knitting needles for the main fabric and one pair of 4mm (UK size 8 / USA size 6) needles for ribbed edges and finishing details. A cable needle is required for working the cable stitch pattern panels. The buttoned waistcoat variation requires 6 to 8 buttons depending on the size selected (6 buttons for smaller sizes, 7 buttons for medium sizes, and 8 buttons for the largest sizes).

Pattern Details

This intermediate-level pattern is designed for knitters with experience in cable work and garment construction. The inclusion of six size options with detailed measurements ensures that knitters can select the appropriate size for their intended wearer. The pattern provides both classic and buttoned variations, allowing for customization based on personal style preferences. The use of Aran weight yarn creates a durable, structured fabric suitable for a waistcoat that will hold its shape and provide good stitch definition for the cable and ridge pattern details.