Cable and Openwork Vest - #179

Cable and Openwork Vest #179 by Sue McCain

What Is Being Made

This is a fitted knit vest designed by Sue McCain, available in sizes ranging from XXS to 6X with finished bust measurements from 28.75 inches to 69.5 inches. The vest features a sophisticated combination of slim cable patterns paired with delicate openwork ribs, creating a refined garment suitable for layering or wearing as a standalone piece.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Cable and Openwork Vest employs several intermediate-level knitting techniques that work together to create visual interest and structure. The garment is worked in the round from the bottom up to the armholes, which eliminates the need for seaming along the sides and creates a seamless, professional finish. The neckband is integrated with the neck shaping as the piece is constructed, streamlining the building process. Shoulders are joined using the 3-Needle Bind-Off technique, a method that creates a strong, flexible seam by binding together live stitches from two pieces. The designer notes that minimal finishing is required, with only armhole edging needing to be added after the main construction is complete.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern is called the Cable and Openwork Pattern, which combines two distinct elements. Slim cables form the main decorative feature, worked using a cable needle to create twisted rope-like vertical lines. These cables are set off by tiny openwork ribs, which are delicate lace-like sections that provide contrast and visual breathing room between the cable elements. The base fabric is worked in stockinette stitch (St st), the fundamental knit stitch that creates a smooth, V-textured fabric. The pattern achieves a gauge of 33 stitches and 36 rows over 4 inches in the Cable and Openwork Pattern.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

This pattern calls for sport weight yarn in a wool blend, a lightweight yet durable fiber choice that provides structure while remaining breathable. Yardage requirements vary by size: XXS requires 820 yards, progressing through 925, 1025, and 1135 yards for the first size range; 1330, 1445, and 1530 yards for the second range; and 1750, 1855, 1960, and 2155 yards for the largest sizes. The pattern specifies one size 4 (3.5 mm) circular needle measuring 29 inches or longer for the main construction, allowing for working in the round. Additional tools include one pair of size 4 (3.5 mm) double-pointed needles for the back neck and armhole edging, a cable needle for manipulating cables, stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping, and stitch holders to temporarily secure live stitches during construction.