Interweave SKU: EP9736

Finished Size: About 51½“ (131 cm) in circumference-48¾” (124 cm) garment plus a 2¾“ (7 cm) gap at center front-and 27½” (70 cm) in length.

Yarn Weight: #4 - Medium

Needles: Size U.S. 8 (5 mm): two 29” (73.5 cm) circular (cir).

Notions: Cable needle (cn); waste yarn or stitch holders; removable markers; tapestry needle.

Gauge: 17 stitches and 25 rows = 4” (10 cm) in reverse stockinette stitch; 22 stitches and 26 rows = 4” (10 cm) in charted pattern.

Shizen iro, or natural color, describes the subtle shibui neutrals of brown and gray in the marled yarn I used for this kimono. The restrained iki style of subdued palette and barely visible woven patterns on the outside of kimono is brought front and center for this garment, which is at once cozy, comfortable, and classic. Th e overall cable pattern on the back and front panels defends the shape and the two-color garter slip-stitch pattern on the neckband and cuff s provides a statement of casual refinement.

Although only a small percentage of historical Japanese kimono fashion involved wool, its lure is too great for me to resist. For me, wrapping up in wool’s soft warmth is a luxury that has become a standard.