Shoal Vest

Description

Shoal is available as a custom-gauge, custom-size pattern via my CustomFit custom pattern generator. Upon purchase, you’ll receive a credit for a custom version of Shoal and instructions on how to create it.

Shoal is one of my series of “CustomFit Basics” – classic, simple garments that work well with many different yarns and silhouettes. In addition to being simple enough to support any yarn you’d care to use, this basic V-neck sweater vest makes a great first dip into sweater knitting.

I love knitting vests as first sweaters for many reasons. They’re simple, practical, and look great on just about everyone. This one features a classic neckline, just-deep-enough to layer, and twisted 1×1 ribbed trim throughout.

Sizing

Shoal is available as a custom-gauge, custom-size pattern for the yarn and measurements of your choice via CustomFit. It’s shown here on Beth in an “hourglass close fit” with an hourglass silhouette, but is available with a-line, straight, and tapered silhouettes and other fits as well.

Shoal works well for men, women, and children.

Gauge

Your own customized version of the Shoal pattern will be written to your gauge, whatever it may be. This design works well with nearly any yarn and gauge.

Materials

I used Blue Sky Fibers Extra, in the color “Fedora”, for the sample shown here. I love Extra – it’s soft, has a quick gauge, and the stitch definition is fantastic.

To make a standard-size 30 (32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60)’’ / 76 (81.5, 86.5, 91.5, 96.5, 101.5, 106.5, 112, 122, 132, 142, 152.5) cm sweater, you’ll need approximately 3 (3, 3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 6) hanks of Extra for this design.

Construction

Shoal is worked in pieces from the bottom up and then seamed. The armholes are trimmed in a small amount of ribbing.