Free knitting pattern: accessory (hood)

Red-Nose Hood

This hood wraps around your head and keeps you warmer than a cowl would. 

Skill level:  Beginner

Material:

Knitting needles:  4.50 mm/ US 7/ UK 7 or size to obtain tension

Yarn:  one skein (200 yards/ 182 metres) worsted weight yarn

Tension:  5 stitches x 8 rows = 1 inch (2.54 centimetres) worked over Stockinette stitch

4 x 4 rib stitch (over an even number of stitches)

Row 1:  knit 4, purl 4 -- repeat to end of row

Repeat row 1 for pattern

seed stitch (over an even number of stitches)

Row 1:  knit 1, purl 1 -- repeat to end of row

Row 2:  purl 1, knit 1 -- repeat to end of row

Repeat rows 1 and 2 for pattern

Cast on 80 stitches

Work in 4 x 4 rib stitch for 2 inches (5.08 centimetres)

Work in seed stitch for 12 inches  (30.48 centimetres)

Cast off

Finishing:

Sew two seams to form hood. (Sew a seam joining ribbing and top of hood)

***

This just in...

The email stated that Wintercraft (a gallery on Salt Spring that sells art and craft created on the Southern Gulf Islands) is opening on Friday, November 29 and will remain open until December 22. I was a participating artisan for many years and was always impressed by the diversity and quality of the work for sale. And this year promises to be just as impressive with over 90 artisan participating--including more than 10 new to the show. WinterCraft is held in Mahon Hall on Rainbow Road on Salt Spring Island.

Byron's Sweater (free knitting pattern)

My husband doesn't like wearing sweaters. That's not unusual. And not really a problem. Unless... Unless you're an aspiring knitwear designer--as I was from 2002 to 2010. So I decided to design a sweater he would wear. My first step: consult him on the design. My next step: consult him on the yarn. My last step: consult him on the fit. This sweater is truly a combined effort. Yet I didn't hesitate to claim I designed it.

Well, look at it.

Do you blame me?

I was still working on the sweater when we vacationed in Hofsos, Iceland. I finished it while there and I had my first International photo shot. Hofsos is a picturesque village in northern Iceland. 

Byron's Daylight in Hofsos sweater 

was first published in 

Knit Together: 

the quarterly publication of Canadian Guild of Knitters 

(November, 2007)

Skill level:  Beginner

Materials:

Cabin Fever Aran Tweed or Kraemer Tatamy Tweed Worsted

250 yards per 100 gram ball - 8 [9, 10, 10, 11] balls

OR 1475 [1650, 1825, 1825, 2025] yards

1350 [1500, 1650, 1650, 1850] metres

worsted weight yarn

1 pair 5 mm 8 US 6 UK straight needles

or whatever size necessary to obtain tension

Tension:  16 stitches = 4 inches/10 cm

Size:  

Finished sweater:  

Chest:  38 [42, 46, 50, 54] inches

97 [107, 117, 127, 137] cm

Length:  25.5 [26.5, 27, 27.5, 28.5] inches

65 [67, 68.5, 70, 72] cm

Instructions are given for smallest size with instructions for larger sizes placed in square brackets []. When only one instructions is given, work it for all sizes.

Rib stitch

Row 1 (right side):  knit to end of row

Row 2:  knit one, purl one--to end of row

Repeat rows 1 and 2 for pattern

Seed stitch (over even number of stitches)

Row 1:  knit one, purl one--to end of row

Row 2:  purl one, knit one--to end of row

Repeat rows for pattern

Stockinette stitch

Row 1 (right side):  knit--to end of row

Row 2:  purl to end of row

Repeat rows 1 and 2 for pattern

Back

Cast on 76 [84, 92, 100, 108] stitches

Work in rib stitch for 2.5 inches (6 centimetres)

Work in Stockinette stitch for 14 [14.5, 15, 15, 15.5] inches 

35.5 [37, 38, 38, 39.5] centimetres 

For tall size, add 2 inches (5 centimetres)

Armhole shaping:

Decrease 8 stitches at the beginning of next 2 rows

60 [68, 76, 84, 92] stitches remaining

Work in Stockinette for 9 [10, 10, 11, 11.5] inches 

23 [25.5, 25.5, 28, 29] centimetres

Shoulder shaping:

Cast off 8 [6, 8, 10, 12] stitches at beginning of next 2 [4, 4, 4, 4] rows

44 stitches remain for all sizes

Collar:  Work in seed stitch for 4 inches (10 cm) 

Cast off

Front

Cast on 76 [84, 92, 100, 108] stitches

Work in rib stitch for 2.5 inches (6 centimetres)

Establish pattern:  Work 12 [12, 12, 12, 14] stitches in Stockinette stitch, 10 stitches in seed stitch, 54 [62, 70, 78, 84] stitches in Stockinette stitch

Work established pattern for 14 [14.5, 15, 15, 15.5] inches 

35.5 [37, 38, 38, 39.5] centimetres

Tip:  Place a stitch marker at each side of seed stitch panel

Armhole shaping: 

Decrease 8 stitches at the beginning of next 2 rows.

60 [68, 76, 84, 92] stitches remain

Check:  with right side facing there are 4 [4, 4, 6] stitches in Stockinette stitch, 10 stitches in seed stitch, 46 [54, 62, 70, 76] stitches in Stockinette stitch

Continue for 4 [4, 5, 5, 5] inches

10 [10, 13, 13, 13] centimetres

Yoke

Establish pattern:  (right side facing) Work 4 [4, 4, 4, 6] stitches in Stockinette stitch, 10 stitches in seed stitch, 18 [20, 22, 26, 26] stitches in Stockinette stitch.

60 [68, 76, 84, 92] stitches remain

Continue as established for 2 [2.5, 2.5, 3, 3] inches

5 [6.5, 6.5, 7.5, 7.5] centimetres

Right side facing for next row. On next row, join a new ball of yarn in the centre of the seed stitch yoke panel, using one ball on each half of front. 

Continue working in pattern as established until armhole measures 8 [9.5, 9.5, 10, 10] inches

20 [24, 24, 25.5, 25.5] centimetres

Widen yoke as follows:  Work 4 [4, 4, 4, 6] stitches in Stockinette stitch, 26 [30, 10, 10, 10] stitches in seed stitch, 0 [0, 2, 6, 8] stitches in Stockinette stitch, 22 stitches in seed stitch, 0 [0, 22, 22, 22] stitches in seed stitch, 8 [12, 16, 20, 24] stitches in Stockinette stitch

60 [68, 76, 84, 92] stitches remain

Continue until armhole measures 9 [10, 10, 11, 11.5] inches

23 [25.5, 25.5, 28, 29] centimetres

Shoulder shaping:  

Cast off 8 [6, 8, 10, 12] stitches at the armhole edge of next 2 [4, 4, 4,4] rows

22 stitches on each side of yoke for all sizes.

Collar:

Continuing as for yoke, with separate ball of yarn for each half of front, work in seed stitch stitch for 4 inches (10 centimetres)

Cast off

Sleeves (make 2)

Cast on 72 [80, 80, 88, 92] stitches

Work in Stockinette stitch for 2 inches (5 centimetres)

Increase 1 stitch at the beginning and end of next row

74 [82, 82, 90, 94] stitches

Work in Stockinette stitch for 1 inch (2.5 centimetres)

Decrease 1 stitch at the beginning and end of next and every following 6th row until 50 [58, 58, 60, 64] stitches remain

Continue in Stockinette stitch until sleeve length is 2 [2, 2.5, 3, 3.5] inches 

5 [5, 6, 7.5, 9] centimetres less than desire length

Wrong side facing for next row

Decrease 8 [16, 16, 18, 22] stitches evenly across next row

42 stitches remain

Work in rib stitch for 2 [2, 2.5, 3, 3.5] inches 

5 [5, 6, 7.5, 9] centimetres

Cast off

Finishing

Attach sleeves, sew side, shoulder, collar and sleeve seams. Weave in ends.

***

Next post:  Meeting the Canadian Authors Association

Free sweater pattern: Easy Sweater for adults by Leanne Dyck

Update:  Nice to know that my patterns are still being enjoyed. Hello to all my knitting friends. : )

I bet this is one of the easiest sweaters you'll ever knit. And it's quick. And it's free.

Drop shoulder sweater knit from the bottom up

Sweater measures

Chest:  36 (40, 44, 48, 52, 56) inches

91.44 (101.6, 111.76, 121.92, 132.08, 142.24) centimeters

Length:  22 (22, 24, 24, 26, 26) inches

55.88 (55.88, 60.96, 60.96, 66.04, 66.04) centimeters

Sleeves:  16 inches (40.64 centimeters) long

Knitting needles:  10 mm/15 US/ 000 Canadian and UK

Yarn:  I used Meldoy by Patons. This is an 100% acrylic super bulky yarn.
I knit the smallest size and used 6 skeins
Weight:  600 grams (100 grams per skein)
Yardage:  510 yards (85 yards per skein)
466.34 meters (77.72 meters per skein)
I recommend you add a skein for each size (i.e. 7 skeins for medium, 8 skeins for large, etc.)
But you could use a different super bulky yarn

Tension:  9 stitches = 4 inches

Stitch pattern:  Garter
Row 1:  knit--to end of row
Repeat row for pattern

How to work the knit stitch tutorial

Front and back (make 2)
Cast on 40 (45, 54, 59, 63) stitches
Work for 22 (22, 24, 24, 26, 26) inches

Sleeves (make 2)
Cast on 45 stitches
Work for 16 inches
I like to work my sleeves from the shoulder down.
It's really important to cast off loosely. You could even use a size larger needle.

Finishing
Sew shoulder seams (approximately 2 to 3 inches on both sides)
(5 to 7.6 centimeters)
Attach sleeves
Sew side seams
Add fringe
Here's how to make fringe

***
Next post:  Sticking with our Halloween theme, together we'll take an adventure through Elizabeth Kostova's book The Historian (horror)

free knitting pattern: Pulse by Leanne Dyck

Transform a plain sweater into a fashion statement with this easy, quick and fun knitting project.

Pulse

Inspiration for this design came from the theory that if you keep the pulse of your wrists and neck covered you will stay warm. I was surprised to discover that the theory was right. Maybe you'll agree, after you knit 'Pulse'.

Knitting needles:  4.50 mm/US 7/ UK 7/Canadian 7 or size to obtain tension
Yarn:  two skeins of worsted weight yarn (20 yards/182 metres)
Tension:  5 stitches x 8 rows = 1 worked over seed stitch

Stitch pattern

4 x 4 rib stitch (worked over an even number of stitches)
Row 1:  knit four, purl four to end of row
Row 2:  purl four, knit four to end of row
Repeat rows for pattern

seed stitch (worked over an even number of stitches)
Row 1:  knit one, purl one to end of row
Row 2:  purl one, knit one to end of row
Repeat rows for pattern

(Make two)
Cast on 40 stitches
Neck:  work in 4 x 4 rib stitch for 6 inches (15 centimeters)
Arm:  work in seed stitch for 22 inches (56 centimeters)
Wrist:  work in 4 x 4 rib stitch for 4 inches (10 centimeters)
Seam the two parts of the neck together 
7 inch (18 centimeters) seam
Sew the cuff seams 
4 inch (10 centimeters) seam
Weave in ends.
Roll back turtleneck
***
Next post:  Raving about the Victoria Writers' Festival

Knitting pattern: Summer Sunset Cardigan designed by Leanne Dyck

This is a perfect project for a beginner knitter. No picking up stitches. Just knit three pieces, attach the sleeves, sew the seams and you're done.

Finished measurements:
Chest:  36 (40, 48) inches
Length:  20 (20, 24) inches
Sleeves length:  12 inches

Materials
Yarn:  Worsted weight yarn:  approximately 400 (931/1,1330) yards 
365 (851/ 10360) meters
(122 meters/133 yards) per ball

Knitting needles:  4.50mm / 7 US / 7 UK / 7 Canadian or size to obtain tension

Gauge (tension):  5 stitches x 8 rows = 1 inches worked over seed stitch

seed stitch (over an even number of stitches))
Row 1:  knit one, purl one--repeat to end of row
Row 2:  purl one, knit one--repeat to end of row
Repeat rows 1 and 2 for pattern

1 x 1 rib stitch (over an even number of stitches)
Row:  knit one, purl one--repeat to end of row
Repeat row pattern

Notes:  1)Body of cardigan is worked in one piece, horizontally.
2)Front is worked in two panels using two balls of yarn.

Body:
Back:
Cast on 90 (100, 120) stitches
Work in seed stitch for 20 (20, 24) inches or to desired length
51 (51, 61) centimeters
Front:
Divide into right front and left front:  work 45 (50, 60) stitches in pattern. Join second ball of yarn and work to end of row. 
Work each front separately, continue in seed stitch until front measures 20 (20, 24) inches.
51 (51, 61) centimeters
Cast off.
Sleeves (make 2)
Cast on 75 (86, 90) stitches
Work in seed stitch for 10 inches (25.4 centimeters)
This row:  reduce number of stitches by 38 ((42, 44) stitches evenly across row. 37 (44, 46) stitches remaining.
Work in 1 x 1 rib stitch for 2 inches. (5 centimeters)
Cast off.

Finishing:
Sew on sleeves. Sew side seams. Weave in ends.

During the designing process, I consulted Standards & Guidelines for Crochet and Knitting

free knitting pattern: "Kayesha" woman's summer top by Leanne Dyck

'Kayesha' a figure-flattering tunic. 

Designed to be knit by a beginner knitter.

This pattern was first published in A Needle Pulling Thread:  the magazine promoting Canadian needle arts (spring, 2008)

Carla A. Canonico (editor-in-chief)

Kayesha

Finished tunic measurements:

Bust:  XS – 30/ S – 34/ M – 38/ L – 42/ 1X – 46/ 2X – 50 inches

76.2 / 86.36 / 96.52 / 106.68 / 116.84 / 127 centimeters

Length:  XS – 27.5/ S, M, L – 28/1x, 2x – 28.5 inches

69.85 / 71.12 / 72.39 centimeters

Knitting needles:  4.00 mm/US 6 OR size to obtain tension

Yarn:  Ornaghi Filati Italy bamboo worsted weight (approximately XS, S – 685 (625)/M, L – 822 (750) /1X, 2X – 959 (875) yards (metres)

Gauge:  5 stitches x 7 rows = one inch (2.54 centimeters) worked over Stockinette stitch

Stockinette stitch

Row 1:  knit – to end of row.

Row 2:  purl – to end of row.

Repeat rows 1 and 2 for pattern.

1 x 1 rib stitch (odd number of stitches)

Row 1:  knit one, purl one – continue to end of row.

Row 2:  purl one, knit one – continue to end of row.

Repeat rows 1 and 2 for pattern.

1 x 1 rib stitch (even number of stitches)

Row 1: knit one, purl one – continue to end of row.

Repeat row for pattern.

Back:

Cast on [XS – 74/ S – 84/ M – 94] L – 104[1X– 114/ 2X – 124] stitches

Work in 1 x 1 rib stitch for 4 inches. (10.16 centimeters)

Work in 1 x 1 rib stitch for 20 stitches; Stockinette stitch for [XS – 34/ S - 44/ M – 54] L – 64 [1X –74/ 2X – 84] stitches. Work for 4 inches. (10.16 centimeters)

Waist:

Work in 4 x 4 rib stitch for 7 inches. (17.78 centimeters)

This row:  1 x 1 rib stitch for 20 stitches; decrease 10 stitches knit evenly across Stockinette stitch section; 1 x 1 rib stitch for 20 stitches. Stitches remaining:  [XS – 64/ S – 74/ M –84] L – 94 [1X – 104/ 2X – 114] stitches.

Next row:  1 x 1 rib stitch for 20 stitches; purl [XS – 24/ S – 34/ M – 44] L – 54 [1X – 64/ 2X – 74]; 1 x 1 rib stitch for 20 stitches

Upper body:

Work in established pattern for 6 inches. (15.24 centimeters)

Armhole shaping:

Next two rows:  decrease 10 stitches at the beginning of the next two rows while maintaining established pattern. Stitches remaining:  [XS – 44/ S – 54/ M – 64] L – 74 [1X – 84/ 2X– 94]

Work for [XS – 4 (10.16)/ S, M – 4.5 (11.43)] L, 1X, 2X -5 inches. (12.7 centimeters)

Neck:

Work in 1 x 1 rib stitch for 1 inch. (2.54 centimeters)

Straps worked from two balls of yarn

From 1^st ball of yarn work [XS – 5/ S – 10/M – 15] L -20 [1X –25/ 2X –30] stitches in 1 x 1 rib stitch

From 2^nd ball of yarn decrease 34 stitches; work [XS – 5/ S – 10/M – 15] L -20 [1X –25/ 2X –30] stitches in 1 x 1 rib stitch

Work for 1 inch (2.54 centimeters)

Cast off.

Front:

Cast on [XS – 74/ S – 84/ M – 94] L – 104[1X – 114/ 2X – 124] stitches

Work in 1 x 1 rib stitch for 4 inches. (10.16 centimeters)

Work in 1 x 1 rib stitch for 20 stitches; Stockinette stitch for [XS – 34/ S - 44/ M – 54] L – 64 [1X –74/ 2X – 84] stitches. Work for 4 inches. (10.16 centimeters)

Waist:

Work in 4 x 4 rib stitch for 7 inches. (17.78 centimeters)

This row:  1 x 1 rib stitch for 20 stitches; decrease 10 stitches knit evenly across Stockinette stitch section; 1 x 1 rib stitch for 20 stitches. Stitches remaining:  [XS – 64/ S – 74/ M –84] L – 94 [1X – 104/ 2X – 114] stitches.

Next row:  1 x 1 rib stitch for 20 stitches; purl [XS – 24/ S – 34/ M – 44] L – 54 [1X – 64/ 2X – 74]; 1 x 1 rib stitch for 20 stitches

Upper body:

Work in established pattern for 6 inches. (15.24 centimeters)

Armhole shaping:

Next two rows:  decrease 10 stitches at the beginning of the next two rows while maintaining established pattern. Stitches remaining:  [XS – 44/ S – 54/ M – 64] L – 74 [1x – 84/ 2x – 94]

Work for [XS – 2/ S, M – 2.5] L, 1X, 2X – 3 inches. (7.62 centimeters)

Neck:

Work in 1 x 1 rib stitch for 1 inch (2.54 centimeters)

Straps worked from two balls of yarn

From 1^st ball of yarn work [XS – 5/ S – 10/M – 15] L -20 [1x –25/ 2x –30] stitches in 1 x 1 rib stitch

From 2^nd ball of yarn decrease 34 stitches; work [XS – 5/ S – 10/M – 15] L -20 [1X –25/ 2X –30] stitches in 1 x 1 rib stitch

Work for 3 inch (7.62 centimeters)

Cast off.

Tips

To eliminate confusion, before working this design take a few minutes to carefully read the entire pattern. Then highlight all information that pertains to your size.

In the working of this design, cotton may be substitute for bamboo.

Would you like to shorten or lengthen the tunic?  This is relatively easy to accomplish. It is best to make these alterations between the bottom trim and waist. Currently, the pattern requires you to:  Work in 1 x 1 rib stitch for 20 stitches; Stockinette stitch for [XS – 34/ S - 44/ M – 54] L – 64 [XL –74/ 2x – 84] stitches. Work for 4 inches.

To lengthen, instead of working this area for 4 inches (10.16 centimeters) work it for 5 (12.7 centimeters) or more inches. To shorten, instead of working this area for 4 inches work it for 3 (7.62 centimeters) or less inches. Ensure that the length of the back and front match.

Finishing

Sew strap seams. Sew side seams to waist. Weave in ends.

***
This is the last hand knitting pattern I'll be sharing for a while. For the entire summer season--Monday, June 3rd to Monday, August 29th--I'm planning to share...a fun summer project. : )

Next post (Thursday):  Writer's royalties and advance

free knitting pattern: women's top "Flowers for Mary" by Leanne Dyck

This pattern was published in Knit Together:  the quarterly publication of Canadian Guild of Knitters by owner/editor Cynthia MacDougall (August 2009). 

"Flowers for Mary"

This gentle blend of rib stitch and easy lace

 makes a flattering top that you'll love to wear

skill level:  beginner

Finished Measurements:

Chest:  36 [40, 44, 48, 52, 56] inches

91 [100, 112, 122, 132, 142] centimeters

Length:  22 [22.5, 24, 24, 26, 26]

56 [57, 61, 61, 66, 66] centimeters

Yarn:  4 [4, 5, 5, 6] light worsted yarn (double knit yarn in UK) (each ball 168 yards/154 metres)

Knitting needles:  1 pair 4.50 mm (7 US, 7 UK), 1 pair 9.00 mm (11 US, 00 UK) or size to obtain tension

Tension (gauge):  24 stitches to 4 inches/10 cm over 4 x 4 ribbing with 4.5 mm needles

12 stitches to 4 inches/10 cm with 9 mm needles

Back

With smaller needles, cast on 98 [106, 122, 130, 138, 154] stitches
Row 1:  knit 3, *purl 4, knit 4; repeat from * to last 3 stitches; knit 3
Row 2:  purl 3, *knit 4, purl 4; repeat from * to last 3 stitches; purl 3
Repeat rows 1 and 2 until work measures
14 [14, 15, 15, 16, 16] inches
33.5 [33.5, 38, 38, 40, 40] centimeters
Armhole:  Cast off 6 [6, 6, 8, 8, 8] stitches at beginning of next two rows
86 [94, 110, 114, 122, 138] stitches remain
Keeping continuity of pattern, work even for 
8 [8.5, 9, 9, 10, 10] inches
20.3 [21.5, 22.8, 22.8, 25.4, 25.4] centimeters
Cast off remaining stitches.

 Front

With smaller needles, cast on 98 [106, 122, 130, 138, 154] stitches

Row 1:  knit 3, *purl 4, knit 4; repeat from * to last 3 stitches; knit 3

Row 2:  purl 3, *knit 4, purl 4; repeat from * to last 3 stitches; purl 3

Repeat rows 1 and 2 until work measures

14 [14, 15, 15, 16, 16] inches

33.5 [33.5, 38, 38, 40, 40] centimeters

Armhole:  Cast off 6 [6, 6, 8, 8, 8] stitches at beginning of next two rows

86 [94, 110, 114, 122, 138] stitches remain

Keeping continuity of pattern, work even for 

1 [1, 2, 3, 3, 4] inches

2.5 [2.5, 5, 7.5, 7.5] centimeters

End with work side facing for next row

Change to larger needles and decrease as follows:

Decrease for Yoke:  

1st size

purl 1, *knit 1, knit 2 together, knit 1 (purl 2 together) twice

repeat from * to last 5 stitches

knit 1, knit 2 together, knit 1, purl 1 

55 stitches remain

2nd [3rd, 4th] sizes

knit 1 [1, 3], *purl 2 together twice, knit 1, knit 2 together twice

repeat from * to last 5 [5, 7] stitches, purl 2 together twice

knit 1, knit 2 together, knit 1 [1, 3]

59 [69, 73] stitches remain

5th [6th] sizes

purl 1, purl 2 together, *knit 1, knit 2 together, knit 1 (purl 2 together) twice

repeat from * to last 7 stitches, knit 1, knit 2 together, knit 1, purl 2 together, purl 1

77 [87] stitches remain

Set Pattern for Yoke

Row 1:  (right side facing) 

knit 1 [0, 0, 0, 2, 2], purl 3, [1, 1, 3, 3, 3], *knit 2, purl 3

repeat from* to last 1 [3, 3, 5, 2, 2] stitches

knit 1 [2, 2, 2, 2, 2], purl 0 [1,1, 3, 0, 0]

Row 2:  (wrong side facing)

purl 1 [0, 0, 0, 2, 2], knit 3 [1, 1, 3, 3, 3], *purl 2, knit 3

repeat from * to last 1 [3, 3, 5, 2, 2] stitches, purl 1 [2, 2, 2, 2, 2], knit 0 [1, 1, 3, 0, 0]

Repeat these two rows for 

3 [3, 3, 4, 4, 4] inches

7.5 [7.5, 7.5, 10, 10, 10] centimeters

end with right side facing for next row

Shape Neck: 

Cast off centre 23 [23, 25, 25, 27, 29] stitches for neck

16 [18, 22, 24, 25, 29] stitches remain on each side

Work the remainder of back in two separate sections

First side

Keeping continuity of yoke pattern, work even for 

3 [3, 4, 4, 5, 5] inches

7.5 [7.5, 10, 10, 13, 13] centimeters

Ending with wrong side facing for next row

Shape shoulder

Cast off 8 [9, 11, 12, 13, 15] stitches at the beginning of next row,

work pattern to end of row

Work yoke pattern for 1 row, cast off remaining stitches

Opposite side: 

Join yarn to remaining stitches and, keeping continuity of pattern,

work in yoke pattern for 

3 [3, 4, 4, 5, 5] inches

7.5 [7.5, 10, 10, 13, 13] centimeters

Ending with right side facing for next row

Shape Shoulder:

Cast off 8 [9, 11, 12, 13, 15] stitches at the beginning of next row,

work pattern to end of row

Work yoke pattern for 1 row, cast off remaining stitches

Sleeves (make 2)

Cast on 74 [74, 82, 82, 90, 98] stitches

Work in rib as given for back for 

2 [2, 3, 3, 4, 4] inches

5 [5, 7.5, 7.5, 10, 10] centimeters

End with right side facing for next row

Change to larger needles and decrease:

knit 3, *(purl 2 together) twice, knit 1, knit 2 together, knit 1

repeat from * to last 3 stitches, purl 3

54 [59, 69, 74, 79, 89] stitches

Set pattern for yoke

Row 1 (wrong side facing):  purl 3, *knit 3, purl 2

Repeat from * to last 3 stitches, purl 3

Repeat this row until piece measures 

9 [9, 10, 11, 11, 12] inches

23 [23, 25, 28, 28, 30] centimeters

Ending with right side facing for next row

Cast off 3 stitches at beginning of next 

6 [6, 8, 8, 10, 10] rows

Cast off remaining stitches

Finishing

Sew shoulder seams together. Centre top of sleeve in armhole opening. Sew in place. Sew side seams and sleeve seams together using mattress stitch. Weave in ends.

Hummingbird Garden Vest (free knitting pattern) by Leanne Dyck

A collared vest designed to be knit by beginner-level knitters and beyond...

This pattern, which I designed, was published in Knit Together (May 2008) Owner/Editor:  Cynthia MacDougall

Skill level:  Beginner

Materials:
Hummingbird Fibre Arts Falkland Superwash Merino double knitting or any suitable worsted weight yarn
1,240 yards [1134 metres] per 454 gram skein 1[1, 1, 1, 2, 2] skeins
1 pair 4.5 mm/7 US/7 UK straight needles or the size necessary to obtain tension

Tension: 22 stitches = 4 inches/10 centimeters over stocking stitch

Size:  Finished sweater:
Chest:  XS-36 [S-40, M-44, L-48, XL-52, XXL-56] inches
91 [100, 112, 122, 132, 142] centimeters
Length:  23 [23, 24, 24, 26, 26]
58 [58, 61, 61, 66, 66] centimeters

Instructions are given for smallest size with instructions for larger sizes place in square brackets []. When only one instruction is given, work it for all sizes. Beginning knitters my wish to place a stitch holder between the 2-Stitch Rib 1 and 2 x 2 rib stitch sections.

2 x 2 Rib stitch
Row 1 (right side facing):  knit 2, purl 2 --repeat to end of row
Repeat row for pattern

2-Stitch Rib 1 stitch (over multiple of 4 stitches)
Row 1:  knit 2, purl 2 --repeat to end of row
Row 2:  purl 2, knit 2 --repeat to end of row
Repeat row 1 and 2 for pattern

Back
Cast on 108 [120, 132, 144, 156, 168] stitches.
Work in 2 x 2 rib for 14 [14, 15, 15, 17, 17] inches
35.5 [35.5, 38, 38, 43, 43] centimeters

Style tip:  For neat side seams, cast on 2 extra stitches so that every right side row begins and ends with knit 2. This will also centre a wale down the back. Remember to add 2 stitches to stitch count throughout. 

Armhole shaping:  At the beginning of the next two rows, cast off 12 stitches.

Style tip:  On the first armhole, cast off stitches knitwise, and on the second armhole cast off stitches purlwise.

84 [96, 108, 120, 132, 144] stitches remain.
Continue in 2 x 2 Rib stitch for 9 inches (23 cm)

Shoulder shaping:  Cast off 12 [10, 10, 12, 20, 22] stitches at the beginning of next 4 [6, 6, 6, 4, 4] rows. 
36 [36, 48, 48, 52, 56] stitches remain.
Work in 2-Stitch Rib I for 4 inches (10 centimeters)
Cast off

Right Front
Cast on 54 [60, 66, 72, 78, 84] stitches

Style Tip:  Add 2 stitches to 2 x 2 Rib panel for sizes S, L, and XXL and end all right-side rows with knit two. This will place 4 knits stitches at the side seams (2 front and 2 back) for a neat mattress stitch seam.

Style Tip:  The row tension for the 2-Stitch Rib I is more per inch than the 2 x 2 Rib. To compensate, work a short row on the front panel stitches every inch or so.

Establish pattern:  2-Stitch Rib I stitch for 12 stitches, 2 x 2 Rib stitches for 42 [48, 54, 60, 66, 72] stitches
Work for 14 [14, 15, 15, 17, 17] inches 
35.5 [35.5, 38, 38, 43, 43] centimeters
End with work side facing for next row.

Armhole Shaping:  Cast off 12 stitches  
42 [48, 54, 60, 66, 72] stitches remaining
Continue in pattern as established for 9 inches (23 centimeters)
End with wrong side facing for next row.

Shoulder Shaping
Cast off 12 [10, 10, 12, 20, 22] stitches at the beginning of next and following alternate 1 [2, 2, 2, 1, 1] row(s)
18 [18, 24, 24, 26, 28] stitches remaining
Work in 2-Stitch Rib I for 4 inches (10 centimeters)
Cast off

Left Front
Cast on 54 [60, 66, 72, 78, 84] stitches
Style Tip:  To make the left front mirror right front, cast on purlwise, then establish pattern, begin with Row 2 of the 2-Stitch Rib I followed by the 2 x 2 Rib, beginning with purl 2. 
Establish pattern:  2 x 2 Rib stitch for 42 [48, 54, 60, 66, 72] stitches, 2-Stitch Rib I stitch for 12 stitches
Work for 14 [14, 15, 15, 17, 17] inches
35.5 [35.5, 38, 38, 43, 43] centimeters
End with right side facing for next row.

Armhole Shaping:  Cast off 12 stitches 
42 [48, 54, 60, 66, 72] stitches remaining
Continue in pattern as established for 9 inches (23 centimeters)
End with right side facing for next row.

Shoulder Shaping:  Cast off 12 [10, 10, 12, 20, 22] stitches at the beginning of this and following alternate 1 [2, 2, 2, 1, 1] row(s) 
18 [18, 24, 24, 26, 28] stitches remaining
Work in 2-Stitch Rib I for 4 inches (10 centimeters)
Cast off

Finishing:  Block pieces for measurements. Sew collar and shoulder seams. Sew side seams. Weave in ends. Attach frog closure, if desired.
***
Okay, so, now here's a really treat. Lean back and listen to the dramatic, melodic tones of Heitha Forsyth singing At Last and then singing my new favourite song

Free knitting pattern: I'm Not Cold Scarf by Leanne Dyck

This unique scarf is a fast and fun first knitting project.

Wear this useful piece of apparel around your neck or used it as a muff.

Finished scarf measures 35 inches [88.9 cm]

Knitting needles:  4.50 mm/US 7/UK 7 
Yarn:  worsted weight (200 yards/182 metres)
I used an acrylic blend. You could use wool or another natural fibres.

4 x 4 rib stitch (over an even number of stitches)
Row:  knit four, purl four--to end of row
Repeat row for pattern

Stockinette stitch
Row 1:  knit--to end of row
Row 2:  purl--to end of row
Repeat rows 1 and 2 for pattern

Cast on 40 stitches
Work in 4 x 4 rib for 6 inches
Work in Stockinette stitch for 23 inches [58.42 cm]
Work in 4 x 4 rib for 6 inches 
Cast off loosely.

Finishing
Fold the scarf lengthwise and sew side seam.

***
Next post:  Should writers blog

Free knitting pattern: ebook pocket designed by Leanne Dyck

Pat's eBook reader pouch

(I hope Pat likes it)

Fits standard eBook reader

A perfect project for new knitters. 

Knitting needles:  6.00 mm/ US 10 or size to obtain tension

and two double pointed needles to make I-cord loop

Yarn:  worsted weight (I recommend wool, wool/acrylic blends or acrylic--I used acrylic) approximately 50 grams

Stitch holder

Gauge:  4 stitches x 7 rows = one inch worked over Stockinette stitch

Double stitch pattern

(this stitch pattern is explained here)

seed stitch (worked over even number of stitches)

row 1:  knit one, purl one--to end of row

row 2:  purl one, knit one--to end of row

repeat rows 1 and 2 for pattern

Cast on 40 stitches

Work in double stitch pattern for 8 inches (20.32 centimeters)

Transfer all slipped stitches onto stitch holder

Cast off knit stitches

Transfer stitches onto needle.

Work in seed stitch for 2.5 inches (6.35 centimeters)

Cast off stitches, loosely

I-cord loop

(how to make I-cord explained here)

work I-cord until it measures 2 inches (5.08 centimeters)

Attach button and I-cord loop. Weave in ends.

Thank you, Pat, for inspiring this pattern.