Antrim Vest

Antrim Vest by KMD Originals

Garment Overview

The Antrim Vest is an intermediate-level knitted waistcoat designed for women in four finished bust sizes: 36, 40, 44, and 48 inches. This sleeveless layering piece features a classic construction with a finished length ranging from 21 to 23.5 inches depending on size. The vest is secured with five ½-inch buttons and combines textured stitch patterns with structured shaping for a polished, wearable design.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Antrim Vest employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters. The primary stitch pattern used is moss stitch, a reversible textured stitch created by alternating knit and purl stitches across rows. Moss stitch is worked over an odd number of stitches, with Row 1 worked as K1, P1 across the row ending with K1, and Row 2 worked as P1, K1 across the row. This creates a subtle, bumpy fabric texture that is visually interesting and lies flat without curling.

The pattern also incorporates cable techniques, as indicated by the inclusion of a cable needle in the materials list. Cable stitches add dimensional interest and structural definition to the vest, likely featured in accent areas or vertical panels that enhance the garment's silhouette.

Construction involves working with circular needles in the round or flat, depending on the knitter's preference, allowing for seamless or minimal-seam construction methods common in modern knit design.

Gauge and Sizing

Achieving proper gauge is critical for this project. The pattern specifies two distinct gauges: the bottom border is worked at 26 stitches and 36 rows over 4 inches, while the body is worked at 24 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches. This difference allows the border to be more densely knit, creating a structured edge that frames the garment. Knitters are explicitly advised to take time to check gauge before beginning, as gauge accuracy directly affects finished measurements and fit.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Antrim Vest is designed to be worked in sport weight yarn, a lightweight yarn category that produces a refined, drapable fabric suitable for layering pieces. Yardage requirements vary by size: the small requires 760 yards, medium requires 860 yards, large requires 980 yards, and extra-large requires 1,110 yards. Sport weight yarn paired with US #4 needles creates a fabric with good stitch definition, allowing textured stitches like moss stitch and cables to be clearly visible.

Needles and Notions

The pattern calls for US #4 circular needles in both 16-inch and 24-inch lengths, or needles sized to obtain the specified gauge. Circular needles allow for flexible construction methods and are essential for working seamless garments or in-the-round sections. A cable needle is required for executing cable stitches. Five ½-inch buttons serve as functional closures and design details, providing both structure and visual interest to the finished vest.

Pattern Information

The Antrim Vest pattern was originally published in 2009 and revised in 2010 by KMD Originals, an independent designer based in Madison, Wisconsin. Directions are provided for women's size small, with all adjustments for medium, large, and extra-large sizes given in parentheses throughout the pattern, making it accessible for a range of body measurements.