Freeport

Freeport Shawl Collar Vest by Elizabeth Smith

What is Being Made

The Freeport is a knitted shawl collar vest designed by Elizabeth Smith. This garment features a classic shawl collar construction and is available in seven sizes ranging from extra small (XS) to 3X, with finished bust circumferences from 32.75 inches (83 cm) to 54.5 inches (138 cm). The vest is designed to be worn with approximately 3 to 5 inches (8 to 13 cm) of positive ease for comfortable fit.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is created using knitting as both the primary and sole craft method. The Freeport vest is classified as a beginner-level knitting project, making it accessible to newer knitters while still producing a polished, wearable garment with sophisticated shaping details.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The pattern employs several fundamental knitting techniques that create both structure and visual interest:

• Long tail cast on — used to begin the project, with the pattern recommending the thumb method variation for ease of execution
• Stockinette stitch (St st) — the primary stitch used throughout much of the garment, creating a smooth, classic fabric
• Garter stitch — used in specific sections, producing a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges
• k2tog (knit two together) — a right-leaning decrease that reduces stitch count by one
• ssk (slip, slip, knit) — a left-leaning decrease created by slipping two stitches individually as if to knit, then inserting the left needle through both and knitting them together
• Wrap and turn (w&t) — a short-row technique used to create shaping without cutting yarn, executed differently on right-side and wrong-side rows to maintain fabric integrity

Gauge and Materials

Proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements. The pattern specifies two different gauges depending on stitch type:

• 14 stitches and 23 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette stitch after blocking
• 14 stitches and 25 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in Garter stitch after blocking

The Freeport vest is designed to be worked in Aran weight yarn, a medium-weight yarn that knits at a relatively quick pace while providing excellent drape and structure for a fitted garment like a vest. Knitting needles appropriate for Aran weight yarn are required, with the specific needle size determined by your gauge swatch.

Pattern Format

This pattern is provided as a downloadable PDF, allowing crafters to access the complete instructions digitally and print them as needed for reference during the knitting process.