Ink

Ink Vest by Fiona Hamilton-MacLaren

What is Being Made

The Ink vest is a cosy fitted sleeveless garment designed as an unisex piece with generous sizing flexibility. This downloadable knitting pattern accommodates chest measurements ranging from 63 cm to 161 cm (25" to 63"), allowing knitters to customize the fit through their choice of ease. The vest features an all-over texture pattern that creates visual interest while the ribbed stitch construction provides substantial stretch and recovery in the fabric.

Techniques and Construction Methods

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several fundamental and intermediate techniques to construct the vest. The pattern requires knitters to work flat on circular needles for the body sections, then transition to working in the round for finishing details. Key construction methods include:

• Casting on using appropriate techniques for the chosen size
• Working flat across the body panels using knit and purl stitches
• Executing increases to shape the garment at strategic points
• Picking up stitches along edges to create neat transitions and armhole finishes
• Working in the round for sleeve edging and neckline finishing
• Weaving in ends to complete the project

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Ink vest showcases a texture pattern stitch as its defining design feature. This all-over texture is created through a combination of knit and purl stitches worked in a structured repeat pattern. The ribbed stitch elements within the design pull the fabric inward, creating the fitted silhouette while maintaining excellent elasticity. The texture pattern stitch is worked at a gauge of 26 stitches and 32 rows over 10 cm (4") when measured unstretched, allowing knitters to adjust needle size as needed to achieve the correct tension.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Ink vest pattern calls for DK weight yarn in quantities varying by size: 250g, 300g, 350g, 400g, 450g, 500g, 550g, 650g, or 700g depending on the chosen size and ease. The yarn specification requires approximately 220 metres per 100 grams. The pattern is shown knitted in Inkpot Wool, DK, a 100% wool yarn with a yardage of 200 metres per 100 grams, displayed in natural grey. Knitters should select needles in 4.0 mm / US size 6, with a circular needle of at least 80 cm (32") length recommended for working the body flat, and circular or double-pointed needles of the same size for working sleeve edging in the round. Additional notions include a tapestry needle for finishing, stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, and stitch holders or waste yarn for managing stitches during construction.

Skill Requirements

This intermediate pattern is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to develop their technique. Required competencies include cast-on methods, working flat on circular needles, executing knit and purl stitches, performing increases for shaping, transitioning to working in the round, picking up stitches along edges, and weaving in ends for a finished appearance.