Knit a cozy Half-Zip Vest for Christmas and beyond! ❤️

I wanted a warm layer for the holiday season that would keep my arms free while cooking—so I made a vest!

In this tutorial, we’ll work from the top down with seamless saddle shoulders, a folded double collar, and broken-rib edging. I’ll also show you how I attach the zipper and knit the inside covers for a neat finish.

Use my measurements as a guide and choose your own fit and length. The illustrated PDF includes a planning worksheet to help you work out your numbers before you begin.

YARN, NEEDLES & GAUGE

Yarn: Big Twist Twinkle
371 yd / 6 oz per ball
Sample used: approximately 2.5 balls

Main needles: 4.5 mm
All ribbing: 3.5 mm

Stockinette gauge:
17 stitches × 26 rows = 4 × 4 in

Zipper: 20 in, or a zipper substantially longer than your planned opening, including the collar. We’ll shorten it after attaching the outside.

Sample measurements:
• Collar circumference: approximately 20 in
• Folded collar height: 3.5 in
• Body circumference: approximately 43 in
• Length below the collar: 22 in
• Body below the underarm join: 8 in, plus 3 in hem rib
• Armhole edging: 9 rounds of broken rib

Check your gauge and try on your vest as you knit. Your stitch counts, shaping and lengths may differ from mine.

MY MATH GAUGE TEMPLATE

Want help calculating stitch and row counts for your own projects?

Purchase my Math Gauge Template here:
https://beginnersluckraft.etsy.com

CA$10.00 as of June 2026. Price subject to change without notice.

QUESTIONS & YOUR PROJECTS

If you have a question, leave it in the comments. I’d also love to hear what color you choose for your vest!

Thank you for knitting with Beginners LUCKraft. Enjoy the process and make it your own! ❤️