Henry Tilney's Vest Knitting Pattern Download

While researching textiles from Jane Austen's time, I was inspired by a Regency-era brocade vest and immediately knew that I wanted to try to re-create it with knitting. I imagined Henry Tilney wearing just such a vest while he was in Bath attending a ball or the theater. The repeating color pattern paired with wool and silk yarn achieved the look I envisioned. A few tailored details were added, such as the back vent and small front pockets. It is as wearable with one of Mr. Tilney's cravats as it would be with a simple shirt and a pair of jeans.

Finished Size: 34¼ (36½, 40¾, 45, 49¼)" chest circumference, buttoned. Vest shown measures 40¾".

Yarn: Spud & Chloë Fine (80% wool, 20% silk; 248 yd [227 m]/2¼ oz [65 g]): #7803 dachshund (MC), 3 (3, 4, 4, 5) skeins; #7819 orangutan (CC), 2 (2, 3, 3, 4) skeins. Distributed by Blue Sky Alpacas.

Needles: Body—size 2 (2.75 mm): 32" circular (cir). Edging—size 1 (2.25 mm): 16" and 32" cir. Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge.

Notions: Markers (m); stitch holders; tapestry needle; size C/2 (2.75 mm) crochet hook; 5 (5, 6, 6, 7) ½" buttons; sewing machine and thread.

Gauge: 30 sts and 32 rnds = 4" in patt on larger needle.

Originally Published: Jane Austen Knits Fall 2012

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