June Blooms

June Blooms Summer Waistcoat by KnitEcoChic

Project Overview

June Blooms is a beginner-friendly knitted waistcoat designed by KnitEcoChic, inspired by the designer's grandmother June and her encouragement to "keep knitting; keep designing." This summer layering piece celebrates simple garment construction combined with vibrant garden-inspired colorwork. The waistcoat works beautifully as a versatile layer over both tank tops and long-sleeved shirts, making it an ideal transitional piece for warm-weather wardrobes.

Garment Specifications

Finished Measurements:

• Size S: 36.25" (92cm) width across back by 18" (45.5cm) length
• Size M: 43.5" (110cm) width across back by 20.75" (53cm) length
• Size L: 51" (129.5cm) width across back by 22.5" (57.5cm) length

Knitting Techniques and Construction

June Blooms employs a straightforward construction method that makes it accessible to beginner knitters. The garment begins with an I-cord cast-on edge, a decorative and durable technique that creates a finished appearance without requiring a separate binding. The I-cord is worked in contrast color yarn and measures 40" (101.5cm), 48" (122cm), or 56" (142cm) in length depending on size.

After binding off the I-cord, stitches are picked up and knit along its length, establishing the main body of the waistcoat. This pick-up method creates a clean transition from the decorative edge to the body stitches.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch: The primary stitch structure, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side, producing the classic smooth, V-textured fabric
• I-cord: A tubular cord created using a small number of stitches, providing both a decorative and functional cast-on edge
• Pick up and knit: A technique for establishing new stitches along an existing edge, used here to transition from the I-cord to the main body

The pattern includes a setup row worked in purl, followed by alternating knit and purl rows to establish the stockinette stitch pattern.

Yarn and Materials

June Blooms is worked in sport weight yarn, a lightweight option ideal for summer garments and layering pieces. The pattern calls for hand-dyed 100% linen yarn in the Eco Stitch Sport line, with each skein containing 268 yards (245 meters) per 100 grams (3.53 ounces).

Yardage Requirements:

• Main Color (MC): 2 skeins for sizes S and M; 3 skeins for size L, shown in Cloud Grey
• Contrast Color (CC): 1 skein, shown in Hot Pink

The linen fiber choice aligns with the designer's eco-conscious brand identity, offering breathability and durability suitable for warm-weather wear. Linen yarn develops a beautiful drape and softens with wear and washing.

Tools Required

• US 6 (4mm) circular needles for working the main body in the round

Design Philosophy

June Blooms embodies a philosophy of accessible design paired with meaningful inspiration. The use of easy stitches and straightforward construction techniques makes this project suitable for knitters developing their fundamental skills, while the vibrant color palette and thoughtful garment silhouette create a finished piece with visual impact and wearability. The contrast between simple stitch work and bold colorwork demonstrates that beginner-level projects need not sacrifice aesthetic appeal.