Scallop Edge Dress

Scallop Edge Dress by Sian Brown

What is Being Made

The Scallop Edge Dress is a knitted garment designed by Sian Brown, available in six sizes to fit bust measurements from 82 cm to 107 cm (32 to 42 inches). This dress features a distinctive scalloped edge detail and is constructed using the knitting technique. The finished dress lengths range from 88 cm to 98 cm (34¾ to 38½ inches) at the shoulder seam, with short sleeves measuring 15 cm (6 inches) in length across all sizes.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting pattern employs several fundamental and decorative knitting techniques to create the finished garment. The scallop edge, which gives the dress its distinctive name and visual appeal, is achieved through strategic decreasing and yarn manipulation. The pattern utilizes a combination of flat and circular knitting methods, as indicated by the use of both straight needles and a circular needle during construction. Colorwork is incorporated throughout the design, with the pattern calling for changes between multiple yarn colors at specific points to create visual interest and pattern definition.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch (st st): The primary stitch used for the main fabric, creating a smooth, classic knitted surface
• Knit and Purl Stitches: Fundamental stitches used in combination to build the fabric structure
• Slip, Knit, Pass Slipped Stitch Over (skpo): A left-leaning decrease stitch used to shape the scalloped edges and create the dress's signature detail
• Knit Two Together (k2 tog): A right-leaning decrease stitch used in conjunction with skpo to form symmetrical scallop patterns
• Yarn Forward (yf): A technique used to create yarn overs, which contribute to the openwork or textured elements of the scallop design
• Make One (m1): An increase stitch used to add stitches where shaping requires expansion

Materials and Specifications

The Scallop Edge Dress is knitted using DK weight yarn, specifically Sirdar Just Soya DK, which is a plant-based yarn option. The pattern requires between 11 and 15 balls of 50g each (totaling 550g to 750g of yarn depending on size), with the main color forming the primary fabric. Accent colors are used strategically: Hot Pepper (154) requires 2 balls, while Spinach (150), Flax (152), and Vanilla Pod (156) each require 1 ball, allowing for creative colorwork integration.

The pattern calls for two sizes of knitting needles: 3.25 mm (US 3) needles and 4 mm (US 6) needles. The 4 mm needles are used for the main fabric construction and are available in both straight and circular formats, with the circular needle specifically noted for casting on and working certain sections. The needle size change between 3.25 mm and 4 mm allows for different fabric densities in specific areas of the garment.

Gauge and Fit

The pattern specifies a tension of 22 stitches and 28 rows to a 10 cm (4 inch) square over stockinette stitch on 4 mm needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished measurements. The dress is designed with actual bust measurements ranging from 84 cm to 115 cm (33 to 45¼ inches), providing a range of fit options across the six available sizes.