Devona

Devona Waistcoat by Linda Marveng

What Is Being Made

Devona is a textured knitted waistcoat (vest) designed by Linda Marveng and named after the Goddess of the Rivers of Devon. This sleeveless garment features contrasting stitch patterns that create visual interest across the front and back panels. The design showcases a sophisticated interplay of textures, with asymmetrical pattern placement that divides the garment into distinct sections.

Design and Pattern Details

The waistcoat is constructed with two primary stitch textures running into each other at the center front. One half features a twisted rib pattern, while the opposite half displays a honeycomb stitch texture. These contrasting sections are separated by a central spine of rib that provides structural definition and visual balance. The lower edges of the garment are finished with garter stitch bands, creating a neat, structured hem. The neckline and armholes are completed with a soft I-cord bind off, adding a refined, professional finish to all edges.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches Used

This intermediate to experienced-level project employs several fundamental and decorative knitting techniques:

• Twisted Rib: A variation of standard ribbing that adds subtle texture and elasticity to one side of the garment
• Honeycomb Stitch: A textured pattern that creates a dimensional, cellular appearance on the opposing panel
• Rib Stitch: Used for the central spine dividing the two main pattern sections and for structural bands
• Garter Stitch: The horizontal ridged texture used for the bottom bands, providing a classic, durable finish
• I-Cord Bind Off: An advanced finishing technique that creates a smooth, rounded edge ideal for necklines and armholes

Yarn and Materials

Devona is knitted using Sølje Pelsull from Hillesvåg Ullvarefabrikk, a Norwegian yarn mill. This yarn is composed of 100% pelt wool, offering a bouncy, resilient quality that enhances the texture of the stitch patterns. The yarn is a 4-ply weight with a yardage of 350 meters (383 yards) per 100-gram skein. The sample shown was knitted in Light Jeansblue 2113. Yardage requirements vary by size: XS requires 700 meters (765 yards, approximately 2 skeins); S requires 805 meters (880 yards, approximately 3 skeins); M requires 910 meters (995 yards, approximately 3 skeins); L requires 1015 meters (1110 yards, approximately 3 skeins); XL requires 1225 meters (1340 yards, approximately 4 skeins); and 2XL requires 1435 meters (1569 yards, approximately 5 skeins).

Finished Measurements and Sizing

The waistcoat is available in six sizes ranging from XS to 2XL. Bust measurements span from 86 centimeters (33.75 inches) in XS to 125 centimeters (49.25 inches) in 2XL. Length measurements range from 61 centimeters (24 inches) in XS to 66 centimeters (26 inches) in 2XL, providing a slightly longer fit in larger sizes.

Skill Level

This project is rated as Experienced difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with intermediate to advanced skills. The combination of multiple stitch patterns, asymmetrical design, and refined finishing techniques requires solid foundational knowledge and comfort with texture work and advanced bind-off methods.