Tidal Shoals

Tidal Shoals Reversible Vest by Crafty Flutterby Creations

What is Being Made

The Tidal Shoals is a reversible vest (also called a waistcoat or bolero) designed as part of the Reversibility Collection by Michelle Stead. This lightweight, lacey, and symmetrical garment is versatile enough to wear multiple ways and offers an enjoyable knitting experience for intermediate-level crafters. The vest is available in four size ranges: XS/S, M/L, XL/2XL, and 3XL/4XL, with finished widths ranging from 39 to 63 inches and finished heights from 21 to 30 inches.

Construction Method

The Tidal Shoals vest is worked side-to-side, a construction technique that builds the garment horizontally rather than from top to bottom. This approach offers unique advantages for shaping and pattern placement. The reversible nature of the design means both sides of the finished garment are equally attractive and wearable, maximizing the versatility of a single knitted piece.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns Used

This pattern employs fundamental knitting stitches combined into cohesive stitch patterns:

• Knit (K) - The basic stitch forming the foundation of the fabric
• Purl (P) - Used in combination with knit stitches to create textural interest
• Yarn Over (YO) - Creates the lacey openwork characteristic of the design
• Knit 3 Together (K3tog) - A decrease stitch that reduces stitch count and shapes the garment
• Purl 3 Together (P3tog) - A decrease stitch worked on the purl side
• Tidal Stripes Sequence - A repeating pattern of knit-purl stripes that breaks up the lace panels and adds visual structure

The lace pattern is described as simple and approachable, making it accessible to intermediate knitters while still creating an elegant, sophisticated finished garment.

Techniques Required

This pattern incorporates specialized casting and binding techniques:

• Cable Cast On with a Twist - A modified cable cast on that creates a secure, flexible edge suitable for the reversible design
• Elastic Bind Off - A flexible finishing technique that allows the bound-off edge to stretch slightly, maintaining the garment's drape and wearability

Knitters are directed to tutorial resources for detailed instruction on these techniques, supporting successful completion of the project.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Tidal Shoals is designed for fingering weight / 4-ply yarn, a lightweight yarn that creates delicate, refined fabric suitable for the lacey vest design. Yarn requirements vary by size:

• XS/S: 380 yards (347 meters)
• M/L: 500 yards (457 meters)
• XL/2XL: 675 yards (617 meters)
• 3XL/4XL: 870 yards (796 meters)

The pattern supports both one-color and two-color vest options. When working a two-color version, the contrasting color is used for the Tidal Stripes Sequence, allowing for creative color combinations while maintaining the reversible quality of the design. Standard knitting needles appropriate for 4-ply yarn are required, though specific needle sizes are referenced within the full pattern documentation.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, suitable for knitters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to work with lace patterns and specialized casting and binding techniques. The approachable lace design and clear stitch pattern breaks make it an excellent project for advancing knitting skills.