A modern-day corset, Vicky won't give you a wasp waist, but she can be worn at home or out on the town. Sizing is variable based on the wearer's ribcage measurement and cup size. Knit in one piece, Vicky gets her slinky shape through use of varied pattern stitches and short rows. She can be lacy for the traditionalist, streamlined edges for the minimalist, or faux fur for fun! |
photos: Emma Crew [top/red] Rebecca Spainhower [bottom/peach] |
SIZE |
Knit to fit the wearer's measurements. Measure in inches around rib cage directly under the breasts (where bra band rests -- note this is not the same number as bra size). Subtract 3 from this measurement, we will call that number X. You will also need to know the wearer's bra cup size. |
FINISHED MEASUREMENTS |
Length: 9 inches plus trim. |
MATERIALS |
[MC] Cascade Sierra [80% pima cotton, 20% wool; 191 yds per 100g skein]; 2 US #7/4.5mm 20-24" circular needles |
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GAUGE |
24 sts/40 rows = 4" in linen stitch on larger needles |
DIRECTIONS |
If planning a lace edging at the bottom of the garment, use a provisional cast on. With smaller needles, CO 6 multiplied by X plus 3 sts. [for value of "X", see SIZE instructions above.] Continue as follows [see image at right]: For A cup, skip to *** For B cup, skip to ** For C cup, skip to ** ***Continue to work alternating rows 1b and 2b as est until piece measures 8 inches or desired length from beg (measure over linen stitch areas). End with RS facing. For plain edge: For fun fur edging: For lace edgings: Small lace pattern (for upper edges): Large lace pattern (for lower edge): Front bands: |
FINISHING |
Press lace edgings with a steam iron. Do not stretch ribbing. Weave in all ends. If using hook-and-eye tape, cut 1/2 inch longer than front bands. Turn both ends under by 1/2 inch and stitch to inside of front bands using matching sewing thread. You can also make your own hook and eye tape using grosgrain ribbon and individual hooks and eyes. Cut ribbon 1/2 inch longer than front bands and turn down each end by 1/2 inch, sew ends in place. Sew matching sets of hooks and eyes along ribbon, spaced every 3/4 inch. Sew ribbon to inside of front bands. If desired, thread satin ribbon through eyelets in lace edgings. Adding elastic is optional, but will help the garment fit more securely. Wrap elastic around ribcage where bra band rests, it should be stretched so as to be snug but still comfortable. Cut elastic to desired length and remove 1 inch. Pin elastic to inside of garment so that the upper edge of the elastic is just below the beginning of the st st sections and ends of elastic are connected to hook and eye tape. With yarn, hand sew a wide zig-zag to enclose the elastic, catching the inside of the garment each time. Pattern notes:
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