Retro Cables Vest

Retro Cables Vest by Therese Chynoweth

What is Being Made

The Retro Cables Vest is a loose-fitting knitted waistcoat designed by Therese Chynoweth. This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for creating a sleeveless vest featuring classic cable knit detailing. The design is available in seven sizes ranging from XS to 3XL, with finished bust measurements from 34¾ inches to 57 inches and lengths from 22½ inches to 25½ inches. The pattern is shown modeled in size Small and is specifically designed with a loose fit, recommending that knitters choose a size 4–6 inches larger than their actual bust measurement for the intended silhouette.

Techniques and Stitches Used

This intermediate-level knitting project showcases cable knit techniques as the primary decorative element, giving the vest its retro aesthetic. Cable stitches are created by crossing groups of stitches over one another to form twisted, rope-like textures that add visual interest and dimension to the garment. The pattern uses standard knitting abbreviations and construction methods typical of fitted waistcoat designs. Knitters will work with stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping increases or decreases throughout the front and back panels. The use of circular needles in two lengths—16 inches and 32 inches—allows for seamless construction and the ability to work both smaller circumference sections and larger body sections efficiently.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Retro Cables Vest is designed to be knitted with DK weight yarn (Light #3), a medium-light yarn weight that creates a fabric with good drape and stitch definition ideal for showcasing cable patterns. The pattern is shown in Valley Yarns Worthington, a premium blend composed of 50% wool, 25% alpaca, and 25% viscose. This fiber composition provides warmth, softness, and a subtle sheen. Yardage requirements range from 713 yards for the smallest size (XS) to 1,204 yards for the largest size (3XL), requiring between 5 and 7 balls of yarn depending on the chosen size.

Knitters will need US 5 [3.45 mm] circular needles in both 16-inch and 32-inch lengths, or the size necessary to achieve the correct gauge as specified in the pattern instructions. Circular needles are essential for this project, allowing for seamless construction and the flexibility to work flat or in the round as the pattern design requires. Additional notions include stitch markers for tracking cable repeats and shaping, and a cable needle for manipulating stitches when creating the cable twists that define this garment's retro aesthetic.