The Ember & Ash Chunky Lace Vest: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Cozy, Open-Front Layer

Wrap Up in Warmth: The Ember & Ash Chunky Lace Vest

There's nothing quite like the feeling of slipping into a hand-knitted vest on a crisp autumn day. The Ember & Ash Chunky Lace Vest is designed to be that perfect layering piece—a cozy, open-front layer that combines the satisfying speed of super bulky yarn with the delicate beauty of a repeating lace pattern. This free pattern creates a stunning, airy texture with a series of small, diamond-shaped eyelets, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe. Whether you choose a deep charcoal grey or a warm butterscotch yellow, this vest is sure to become a fall favorite. Let's get started on creating your own handmade masterpiece!

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies. Using the correct materials is key to achieving the beautiful, relaxed fit and stitch definition shown in the pattern.

• Yarn: Super Bulky weight yarn (Size 6), approximately 350-400 yards. The sample is shown in Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick in 'Charcoal' and 'Butterscotch'.
• Needles: US Size 13 (9 mm) knitting needles, or size needed to obtain gauge.
• Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends.

Gauge Information

Taking the time to check your gauge is crucial for a well-fitting vest. Work a 4x4 inch swatch in the lace pattern.

• Stockinette Stitch: 8 stitches and 12 rows = 4 inches.
• Lace Pattern: 10 stitches and 14 rows = 4 inches.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This vest is worked flat in two pieces (Back and Front) and seamed at the shoulders and sides. The lace pattern is a simple 4-row repeat that creates a beautiful, airy texture. Follow these instructions carefully for a flawless finish.

Sizes and Abbreviations

• Sizes: S/M (M/L, L/XL). Finished chest circumference: 38 (42, 46) inches.
• Abbreviations:
  • CO: Cast on
  • K: Knit
  • P: Purl
  • K2tog: Knit two together
  • YO: Yarn over
  • SSK: Slip, slip, knit (slip two stitches knitwise, then knit them together through the back loops)
  • St(s): Stitch(es)
  • Rep: Repeat

Pattern Notes

• The vest is worked flat in two pieces (Back and Front) and seamed at the shoulders and sides.
• The lace pattern is a 4-row repeat.
• The vest is designed to be slightly oversized.

Back Panel

1. Cast On: CO 38 (42, 46) sts.
2. Row 1 (WS): Purl all sts.
3. Row 2 (RS): K2, *YO, K2tog, K2; rep from * to end.
4. Row 3: Purl all sts.
5. Row 4: K1, *SSK, YO, K2; rep from * to last 3 sts, SSK, YO, K1.
6. Repeat: Rep Rows 1-4 until piece measures 18 (19, 20) inches from CO edge, ending with a WS row.

Shape Armholes

1. Bind off 3 (4, 4) sts at beginning of next 2 rows.
2. Then decrease 1 st at each end of next 2 RS rows. 28 (30, 34) sts remain.
3. Continue straight in pattern until armhole measures 8 (9, 10) inches from bind-off.

Shape Shoulders

1. Bind off 5 (5, 6) sts at beginning of next 2 rows, then 5 (6, 6) sts at beginning of next 2 rows.
2. Bind off remaining 8 (8, 10) sts for back neck.

Left Front Panel

1. Cast On: CO 19 (21, 23) sts.
2. Work in Lace Pattern: Work in lace pattern as for back until piece measures 18 (19, 20) inches from CO, ending with a WS row.

Shape Armhole

1. Bind off 3 (4, 4) sts at beginning of next RS row.
2. Then decrease 1 st at armhole edge on next 2 RS rows. 14 (15, 17) sts remain.
3. Continue straight until armhole measures 6 (7, 8) inches from bind-off, ending with a WS row.

Shape Neck

1. At neck edge (beginning of RS rows), bind off 3 (3, 4) sts once, then 2 sts once, then 1 st once. 8 (9, 10) sts remain.
2. Continue straight until armhole measures same as back.
3. Bind off 5 (5, 6) sts at armhole edge once, then 3 (4, 4) sts once.

Right Front Panel

1. Work as for left front, reversing all shaping (armhole decreases on WS rows, neck shaping at end of RS rows).

Finishing

1. Sew Seams: Sew shoulder seams. Sew side seams, leaving 8 (9, 10) inches open at top for armholes.
2. Edging: With RS facing, pick up and knit sts evenly around entire front opening and neck edge. Knit 1 row (WS), then bind off loosely knitwise on RS.
3. Weave in Ends: Weave in all ends.
4. Block: Block lightly to open lace pattern.

Congratulations! You've just created a beautiful, cozy chunky lace vest. Layer it over your favorite sweaters and enjoy the handmade warmth all season long.