Sycamore Vest

Sycamore Vest by Hannah Fettig

What is Being Made

The Sycamore Vest is a knitted waistcoat designed by Hannah Fettig (knitbot) that features a textured surface inspired by tree bark. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a fitted vest suitable for layering, available in five size options ranging from small to extra-large.

Design and Inspiration

The vest draws its aesthetic from natural elements, specifically the ribbed texture found on sycamore tree bark. This organic inspiration translates into the garment's stitch pattern, creating visual interest and dimension across the body of the piece.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Chart-based construction: The pattern utilizes Charts A and B to guide stitch placement and shaping throughout the garment
• Increases: Strategic increases are worked at regular intervals (every 16th row) to shape the vest body and create proper fit
• Armhole shaping: Bind-off decreases are used to create clean armhole edges
• Marker placement: Multiple markers track center back and side seams for accurate shaping and construction
• Repeat patterns: Chart patterns are repeated across the width of the garment for consistent texture

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch: Forms the foundation of the fabric
• Purl stitch: Combined with knit stitches to create the ribbed, bark-like texture
• Make One Left (M1L): A left-leaning increase used for shaping

The alternating knit and purl stitches work together to produce a dimensional ribbed surface that mimics the natural texture of tree bark, adding visual and tactile interest to the finished garment.

Materials and Yarn Weight

The Sycamore Vest is designed to be worked in DK or sport weight yarn, both lightweight options that create a fabric suitable for a fitted, layering piece. The pattern accommodates cast-on counts ranging from 220 to 300 stitches depending on size, allowing knitters to choose yarn and needles appropriate to their selected gauge.

Pattern Details

The vest begins with a cast-on of 220 (240, 260, 280, 300) stitches and features a body section measuring approximately 12.5 to 14.5 inches before armhole division. The pattern includes five size options to accommodate different body measurements, with proportional adjustments to stitch counts and shaping throughout.

Difficulty Level

Rated as an intermediate project, the Sycamore Vest requires familiarity with chart reading, increase techniques, and shaping methods. Knitters should be comfortable working from written instructions and charts simultaneously, as well as managing multiple stitch markers for accurate construction.

Pattern Credits

Design by Hannah Fettig and Knitbot, with illustration by Neesha Hudson and technical editing by Tana Pageler. The pattern was originally published in 2011. For pattern questions, contact hannahfettig@gmail.com.