Camisole

Cotton Camisole by Jennie Atkinson

What is Being Made

This is a knitted cotton camisole inspired by the elegant fine cotton camisoles of the Victorian and Edwardian eras. The garment features vintage-inspired design elements including lace inserts and pin-tucks characteristic of historical lingerie and undergarments. The camisole is available in six sizes to fit bust measurements from 32 to 42 inches (81.5 to 106.5 cm), with finished widths ranging from 17½ to 22½ inches and finished lengths from approximately 17½ to 21¼ inches.

Design Features and Construction

The camisole showcases a sophisticated construction combining multiple design elements. The yoke and front bands incorporate simple lacey stitches that echo the delicate aesthetic of historical camisoles. A shaped rib is worked at the back for structure and fit. The garment is finished with a scalloped edging at the hem and features a silk ribbon at the neckline, adding an authentic vintage touch to the finished piece.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Stockinette stitch (st st) for the main fabric body
• Lacey stitch techniques for the yoke and front band details
• Ribbed stitching at the back for shaping and elasticity
• Twisted hem construction to create a finished edge
• Scalloped edging for decorative finishing
• Yarn over (yon) increases to create lace openwork
• Make one stitch (M1) increases for shaping

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The pattern employs fundamental knitting stitches combined to create texture and visual interest. Stockinette stitch forms the foundation of the garment body, creating a smooth, classic fabric. Lacey stitches are incorporated into the yoke and front bands, achieved through yarn overs and decreases that create openwork patterns reminiscent of vintage lace inserts. Ribbed stitches at the back provide elasticity and shaping. The twisted hem is formed through a specific row technique, while the scalloped edging is created through strategic decreasing to form the curved, decorative border.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This camisole is knitted using 3-ply yarn weight, which provides a lightweight, delicate fabric appropriate for a summer garment or fine undergarment. The pattern calls for cotton yarn (Olympus Emmy Gr is referenced in the pattern), which offers breathability and a natural drape suitable for the Victorian and Edwardian aesthetic. The project uses 2.75mm (US 2) needles for the main construction, which is typical for working with 3-ply yarn and creates a fine, refined fabric. The finished garment is embellished with silk ribbon at the neck, adding an authentic vintage detail.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience. The combination of lacey stitches, shaping techniques, and the need to work multiple stitch patterns requires solid foundational knitting skills and comfort with reading pattern instructions and managing increases and decreases.