Fair Isle Surprise Vest by Cully Swansen

Fair Isle Surprise Vest

Knitting
Fingering (14 wpi) ?
7 stitches and 8 rows = 1 inch
36.5, 39, 41, 43.5, 46"
English

The Baby Surprise Jacket has only grown in popularity since Elizabeth Zimmermann knit the first one for her grandson, Cully, 50 years ago! Now, coming full-circle, Cully has designed a pair of Surprise Vests, which, similar to the BSJ, capture the exciting transformation that - with a couple of folds - turns a mysterious mass of knitting into a beautiful garment.

The elegant Fair Isle Surprise Vest is truly revolutionary for Fair Isle construction. The beautiful OXOs and Peeries of a traditional Fair Isle are led on a surprising path during the knitting, resulting in a pleasing puzzle that, when folded and woven, reveals a striking mitered-front. Two different methods for Fair Isle construction are included.

A similar exciting puzzle awaits with the Garter Stitch Surprise Vest. No steeks - simply a couple of increase points (like on the BSJ) and the mystery grows throughout the knitting; then, voila - a cozy, attractive vest.

Full instructions for both vests, with multiple sizes up to 46” Fair Isle and up to 50” Garter, and plenty of images; 12 pgs in a protective archival sheet protector.

Knit in Jamieson’s Shetland (Fair Isle) and Unspun Icelandic (Garter Stitch) or Canadian Regal (Garter Stitch)