Waistcoats in Sirdar Click Chunky - 7208 - Downloadable PDF

Waistcoats in Sirdar Click Chunky - Pattern Summary

What Is Being Made

This downloadable PDF pattern from Sirdar includes instructions for knitting two distinct waistcoat designs: a V Neck Waistcoat and a Shawl Collared Waistcoat. Both styles are crafted in Sirdar Click Chunky yarn and are classified as easy knit projects, making them suitable for beginner knitters. The pattern offers six size options ranging from 81/86cm (32/34in) bust/chest to 132/137cm (52/54in), with actual measurements spanning from 90cm (35½in) to 141cm (55½in). Full length measurements vary from 60cm (23¾in) for the smallest size to 73cm (28¾in) for the largest size.

V Neck Waistcoat Design

The V Neck Waistcoat features a classic V-shaped neckline and is constructed using Sirdar Click Chunky in shade 211. This design requires 6 to 12 50g balls of yarn depending on the selected size, with the smallest sizes (81/86cm and 91/97cm) requiring 6 balls, medium sizes (102/107cm and 112/117cm) needing 8 to 9 balls, and larger sizes (122/127cm and 132/137cm) requiring 11 to 12 balls. The waistcoat is finished with button bands, requiring 6 to 7 buttons depending on size.

Shawl Collared Waistcoat Design

The Shawl Collared Waistcoat offers an alternative style with a more relaxed collar treatment. This version is made in Sirdar Click Chunky shade 203 and follows similar yarn requirements to the V Neck design, ranging from 6 balls for the smallest sizes to 12 balls for the largest. The shawl collar style requires slightly more buttons than the V Neck version, with 6 to 8 buttons needed depending on the chosen size.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

Both waistcoats are constructed using fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for beginner-level crafters. The primary stitch used throughout the garments is stocking stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric texture. Stocking stitch is formed by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side, producing the characteristic V-pattern appearance that defines this versatile stitch. The pattern requires working to a specific tension to ensure proper garment fit and drape.

Materials and Tools Required

Construction of either waistcoat design requires the following materials and equipment:

• Yarn: Sirdar Click Chunky in either shade 211 (V Neck Waistcoat) or shade 203 (Shawl Collared Waistcoat). The pattern notes that Faroe Chunky is also suitable as an alternative yarn option, though yarn amounts may vary when substituting.
• Knitting Needles: One pair of 6½mm (UK size 3 / USA size 10.5) needles and one pair of 5½mm (UK size 5 / USA size 9) needles. The larger needles are used for the main fabric, while the smaller needles are typically employed for ribbed edgings and bands.
• Notions: Between 6 and 8 buttons depending on the waistcoat style and size selected.

Tension and Fit

The pattern specifies a tension of 14 stitches and 19 rows to 10cm (4in) over stocking stitch. Achieving the correct tension is essential for ensuring the waistcoat fits according to the provided measurements. Knitters should always work a tension swatch before beginning the main project to verify their stitch and row gauge matches the pattern requirements.