Lihan Dress

Lihan Dress by Imke von Nathusius

What is Being Made

The Lihan Dress is a knitted tunic dress designed by Imke von Nathusius as a sister design to the Lihan Sweater. This versatile garment is available in a comprehensive range of sizes spanning from newborn (0-3 months) through to children's sizes up to 13 years old, with finished chest measurements ranging from 45.5 cm (18 inches) to 80 cm (31.5 inches). The dress offers multiple customization options, allowing knitters to personalize their finished piece through various construction choices for the yoke, sleeves, and skirt.

Construction Method

The Lihan Dress features a circular yoke top-down construction, a technique that begins knitting from the neckline and works downward toward the hem. This method allows for seamless integration of increases that shape the garment as it expands from the fitted yoke to the wider body and skirt sections. The top-down approach provides flexibility for adjusting length and fit as you knit, making it an excellent choice for garments intended to grow with a child.

Stitch Options and Techniques

The pattern provides three distinct increase options, each creating a different visual and textural effect:

• Stockinette Stitch with Nearly Invisible Increases: A classic, clean option that creates a smooth, refined appearance with increases that blend seamlessly into the fabric
• Eyelet Increases: A summery alternative that incorporates decorative eyelets into the increase lines, adding visual interest and a lighter aesthetic suitable for warm-weather wear
• Nupp Increases: A textured option featuring nupps (small bobble-like stitches), which add dimensional texture and visual complexity to the yoke

Sleeve and Skirt Variations

The pattern accommodates multiple sleeve lengths and styles, including short sleeves and long sleeves in both straight and shaped options. Additionally, knitters can select from two skirt width options, allowing customization of the dress silhouette from a more fitted tunic to a fuller, more generous cut. These mix-and-match possibilities mean each knitter can create a unique version tailored to their preferences and intended use.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Lihan Dress is designed to be knitted with DK weight yarn, a medium-weight yarn that provides excellent stitch definition while remaining lightweight and breathable—ideal for a dress garment. The pattern requires appropriate knitting needles sized to work with DK yarn, typically in the range of US 1-3 (2.25-3.25 mm), though specific needle recommendations would be detailed in the full pattern instructions.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond basic techniques. The circular yoke construction, multiple stitch options, and various customization choices require comfort with working in the round, managing increases, and following pattern modifications. However, the foundational techniques remain accessible to dedicated intermediate-level knitters.

Pattern Format and Community

The Lihan Dress is available as a downloadable PDF pattern, allowing immediate access to the full instructions. The pattern encourages community engagement through social media sharing using the hashtags #lihandress and #ivnknit, creating a space for knitters to showcase their finished garments and connect with others making this design.