Interweave SKU: EP9741

Finished Size: About 51½“ (131 cm) in circumference and 42” (106.5 cm) in length.

Yarn: Chunky and worsted weight (#5 Bulky and #4 Medium).

Needles: Body and sleeves: size U.S. 11 (8 mm) 24” (60 cm) circular (cir). Edging: size U.S. 10½ (6.5 mm) 24” (60 cm) cir.

Notions: Removable markers (m); large stitch holders; waste yarn in a contrasting color; tapestry needle; size H/8 (5 mm) crochet hook.

Gauge: 13 stitches and 26 rows = 4” (10 cm) in horizontal herringbone pattern with MC on larger needle.

In dramatic fashion, this long coat kimono provides winter warmth in a single layer that accommodates all the clothing worn beneath. For this design, I chose a herringbone slip-stitch pattern to produce a firm fabric that will retain its shape, and I knitted two-layer cuffs to emulate the many layers of robe typical of court attire during the Heian period. Cuffs in successively smaller circumference function both to keep out the cold and to hold the sleeves in place. For a unique closure treatment, I attached a shaped scarf on one side that pulls through a slot in the opposite front and hangs in lovely bias folds. The subtle blend of purples and grays in this bulky handpainted yarn is classic and tasteful.

While the Heian court ladies may have looked spectacular in their twelve to twenty layers of kimono robes, you’ll find movement is much easier in this uwagi.