Don’t you just love free knitted vest patterns??? Knitted vests are versatile layering pieces that can elevate your outfit year-round. Whether you want to add a stylish touch to a casual ensemble or stay cozy during the colder months, a knitted vest is the perfect choice. The best part? You don’t have to break the bank to get your hands on some fabulous patterns!
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If you’re a knitting enthusiast or a beginner looking to expand your skills, I’ve got you covered. In this article, I’ve curated a collection of 20 free knitted vest patterns for women that are not only gorgeous but also easy to make. You’ll find patterns suitable for all skill levels, whether you’re just starting or a seasoned knitter.
This post is all about the Best Free Knitted Vest Patterns for Women
Free Knitted Vest Patterns for Beginners
Even if you’re new to knitting, don’t worry! Vests are fantastic projects for beginners. They have simple shapes and no sleeves, making them easier to knit than sweaters. Once you’ve mastered basic knitting techniques like casting on, binding off, and knit and purl stitches, you’ll be ready to tackle these simple vest patterns with confidence. Happy Knitting!
1. Caramel Ridge
The Caramel Ridge vest (DROPS design) is a great project for beginners. It features a simple English rib stitch pattern and minimal shaping. This cozy and stylish vest is perfect for layering and can be worn with you’re favorite t-shirt, jeans, or dresses. It’s worked bottom up with a split hem. (US Size S – XXXL)
2. Pearl Falls
The Pearl Falls vest is a versatile slipover knit vest that is suitable for both beginners and advanced knitters. This oversized fit beautiful vest is worked bottom up with a moss stitch and has a high neck. This oversized vest would be beautiful for a cozy dinner party at home or a date-night dinner. (US Size S – XXXL)
3. See My Vest – (Chunky Yarn – Easy Pattern)
The See My Vest – Chunky Vest is a super easy seamless vest pattern that is perfect for beginners and is a quick knit. This vest is seamless and worked in the round, making it a great project for beginner garment knitters. The simple shaping allows for a comfortable and flattering fit. It uses chunky weight yarn and is written for sizes XS – 5XL. Skill Level Super Easy.
4. Simply a Vest
The Simply a Vest pattern is a free Knit pattern with a crew neck and worked in stockinette stitch. This is a simple design and is a great first vest project. Since the vest is knitted in stockinette stitch it works well to show off hand-dyed or gradient yarns. The vest is knitted flat and then pieced together. (Size Options S – XL)
5. Pixie Vest (Super Bulky Weight Yarn)
This vest by Lirio Knits is super cute! It would be a great gift for a teen or yourself and would be a great project for using up some of your leftover yarn. The good news is that she not only offers the free knit vest pattern but also has a YouTube video showing you the process. Yarn used for this vest: bulky weight wool from Wool and the Gang (Size S – XXXL) Make it a cropped vest for a trendy look!
6 .Marshmallow Vest
The Marshmallow Vest is a super easy knit that can be completed over the weekend. The open-front vest features a simple crew neck and is knitted bottom up. Comes in Sizes XS – 5XL (free digital download)
7. Paris knitted vest pattern
The Paris vest is so beautiful and delicate! The texture is achieved by knitting a “bobble stitch” and it worked in the round. This classic design vest is perfect for both casual and formal occasions. (Sizes XXS – XL)
8. Open Trails Sweater Vest
The Open Trails Sweater Vest by Ashley Lillis is a super easy knit. It had a round neck and is worked in a simple stockinette stitch with minimal shaping, making it an easy and quick project to complete. Ashley uses Lion Brand Thick and Quick yarn for this project. She also has a lighter version knitted in worsted-weight yarn. Oh, and get this – she has a great tutorial where she explains the whole process in detail and offers great tips on gauge and sizing. (Sizes 1-8)
9. Fuzzy Vest
Such a beautiful and fun knitting project. This vest is great for beginners and fun for advanced knitters as well. The cozy and warm versatile vest is knitted flat (with fluffy yarn) and then seamed together. It is a lovely vest and looks cute with a t-shirt layered underneath. NOTE: when you download the pattern, the English version is more towards the bottom of the pattern, so keep scrolling. (Sizes S – XL) Uses a pair of 4 mm / 6 us circular needles.
10. Mushy Vest – Super Trendy!!
This fashionable vest is an excellent choice for knitters who like to stay on-trend. With its eye-catching design, it’s sure to turn heads wherever you go. The best part is, it’s a breeze to knit, so even those new to the craft can create it with ease. This Vest is made using US 19 wooden knitting needles.
11. Clarissa Shell (versatile vest)
This vest has a diamond motif and a delicate scalloped edge at the bottom. It wears well in the summer because it’s so breezy but you can layer it in the winter for a warmer feel. The vest is worked from the bottom up and worked in the round. Uses US 5 (3.75mm) & US 6 (4mm) 24–32″ circular knitting needles and Galileo Sport Weight Yarn that is very economical.
12. Harvest Hooded Vest Pattern
The Harvest Vest is an awesome piece to add to your closet! It has been crafted by knitting four separate panels flat and then joining them together. The vest boasts patch pockets that are both functional and stylish. The versatility of this garment is truly remarkable and can be paired with just about anything. Whether it’s for a casual day out a picnic and a movie, the Harvest Vest is a must-have in any wardrobe. Uses Size 9 circular needles with 24” cable (Sizes XS – XXL)
13. Alpine Vest
This Alpine vest is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a quick and easy knitting project. With just a few hours of work, you can create a stylish and versatile piece that’s perfect for any casual occasion. Whether you’re heading out on a road trip or just want to spend a cozy weekend at home, this vest is a great choice. You can wear it on its own for a simple and chic look, or layer it up with some cozy pieces for extra warmth. With its classic design and comfortable fit, you’re sure to get plenty of use out of this versatile vest.
14. Change Your Stripes Knit Vest (simple vest pattern)
The Change Your Stripes beginner knitted vest is an easy knit and a perfect pattern to get started on adding colorwork to your knitting repertoire. It’s perfect for using any leftover yarn in your stash.
15. Criss Cross Vest Pattern
Criss Cross Vest Pattern – If you’re someone who likes to wear turtlenecks or simple tops and looking for a way to complete your look, this stylish vest is exactly what you need. It is designed to enhance your outfit and add an extra layer of sophistication. You can choose from a variety of colors of yarn to find the perfect match that will give you a luxurious finish. (Uses Size U.S. 8 knitting needles)
16. Waffle Stitch Vest
Waffle Stitch Vest – Looking for a versatile garment to elevate your style? Look no further than this luxuriously soft, knit pullover vest. The cowl neck provides a cozy warmth that’s perfect for chilly days, while the high-low hemline adds a touch of elegance to your look. The waffle stitch pattern adds texture and depth, making this a fun and unique piece to stitch up. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to care for, so you can wear it over and over again without any fuss. Whether you’re dressing it up or down, this pullover vest is the perfect addition to your wardrobe.
17. Knit Turtleneck Vest with Side Slits
Turtleneck Vest with Side Slits – This stunning garment is crafted with a luxurious stocking stitch body that showcases beautifully textured accent ribbing along the sides. The cowl neck is crafted with the same ribbing stitch, providing a lusciously loose and cozy fit that is sure to keep you warm and comfortable. Additionally, the inclusion of slits in the design makes this vest even more comfortable to wear, allowing you to move freely without any restrictions. Make it into a longer vest for even more versatility!
18. Isla Slipover
Isla Slipover Knitted Vest – This particular piece is crafted using the stocking stitch technique, which gives it a beautiful texture and appearance. The edges are ribbed, adding a touch of playfulness to its design. To enhance its versatility, the piece is split at the sides, making it perfect for layering and creating a stylish look. Sizes S – XXXL.
19. Grey Stone Hill
The Grey Stone Hill Knitted Vest Pattern – Instant classic and timeless – This stunning piece is knitted with a high neck and is ribbed on the edges. (Sizes: S – XXXL)
20. Timbo Vest
This Timbo vest is so beautiful to look at. You will love the stylish features and it’s an easy and quick knit. Do you have a road trip coming up? If so, this would be the perfect project to take along. (Sizes: XS – XL)
If you’re just starting with knitting, there’s nothing to worry about – you can still create beautiful vests! Once you’ve mastered basic knitting techniques like casting on, binding off, and knit and purl stitches, you’ll be ready to take on simple vest patterns. Vests are perfect for beginners because they have straightforward shapes and no sleeves to worry about. The above free knitted vest patterns is the perfect place to start.
Knitting Techniques for Vests
While knitting a vest is simpler than knitting a sweater, there are still a few basic knitting techniques to know. These techniques will help you create a well-fitting and beautifully finished vest. Let’s explore the essential techniques you need to master:
Making a Gauge Swatch
Before starting your project, it’s crucial to make a gauge swatch to ensure your stitches match the pattern’s recommended gauge. A gauge swatch allows you to measure how many stitches and rows you have per inch. Adjusting your knitting tension can help you achieve the right gauge and ensure the correct fit of your vest. The Knitting Experience Book 1 by Sally Melville is a great book that explains the importance of a gauge swatch.
Casting On
The first step in any knitting project is casting on. There are various casting-on methods to choose from, such as the long-tail cast on, the knitted cast on, or the cable cast on. Select the method that suits your preference and the pattern’s requirements to start your vest. Cast On, Bind Off: 54 Step-by-Step Methods; Find the perfect start and finish for every knitting project is a great book showing both Casting On and Binding Off methods.
Binding Off
Binding off is the finishing step in knitting when you secure the final row of stitches and create a neat edge. The bind-off method you choose will depend on the desired look and stretchiness of the edge. Common bind-off methods include the basic bind off, the stretchy bind off, and the picot bind off.
Basic Stitches: Knit and Purl
The knit and purl stitches are the foundation of knitting. Mastering these basic stitches will allow you to create various textures and patterns in your vest. Most vest patterns will include a combination of knit and purl stitches, so it’s essential to know how to knit and purl effectively. The Vogue Knitting Stitchionary Volume 1 is the perfect book for the explanation of these stitches and more!
Knitting in the Round
Some vest patterns may require knitting in the round, which eliminates the need for seams and creates a continuous fabric. Circular needles or double-pointed needles (DPNs) are used for knitting in the round. Familiarize yourself with knitting in the round techniques like using circular needles, magic loop, or DPNs, depending on the pattern’s instructions.
Seaming Pieces Together
For vest patterns knitted in separate pieces, seaming is required to join the components and create the final garment. Learning seaming techniques, such as the mattress stitch, will allow you to seamlessly connect the front and back panels, shoulders, and sides of your vest.
Blocking
Blocking is the process of shaping and setting your knitted fabric to its intended dimensions. It helps even out stitches, relax the fabric, and reveal the true beauty of your vest. Follow the pattern’s blocking instructions, which may involve wet blocking or steam blocking, to achieve the perfect shape and drape for your vest. Check out my blog post on “gifts for knitter” # 16 on the list!
Choosing the Right Supplies for Knitting Vests
To knit a vest, you will need the following supplies:
Supply | Description |
---|---|
Knitting needles | Straight, circular, or DPNs depending on the pattern |
Yarn | Choose a yarn suitable for the pattern / project |
Stitch markers | Helpful for marking important sections |
Scissors | Sharp pair for cutting yarn |
Tapestry needle | Essential for seaming pieces and weaving in ends |
Buttons (optional) | Choose buttons that complement your design |
Having these supplies on hand will ensure you have everything you need to complete your vest knitting project. Happy Crafting!
No matter which vest pattern you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the process of knitting and creating a unique garment that reflects your personal style.
This post was all about Free Knitted Vest Patterns for Women.
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