Begin by making the folded neckband in a twisted rib pattern. Next, shape the back of the yoke using german-short rows while also starting the lace swivel pattern. The lace swivel pattern then becomes the increase method for working the rest of the yoke; these are achieved by moving the position of the increase along by 2 stitches on every new round.

Once the yoke is complete, bind off stitches. Change to larger size needle and pick up new stitches around the yoke, this creates a decorative edging. Next begin working the lower body and sleeves in a ribbed stitch that will give the illusion of pleats. Divide the stitches for the sleeves and body, placing sleeve stitches on stitch holders, then continue working the body.

The ribbed waist is then worked on smaller needles, either using the double knit method or making 2 layers separately, the elastic is then encased within the waistband; Elastic is used so the waist can remain tight and give the right shape to the dress. Once the waist is complete, change back to larger needles and work increases to shape the skirt. The pleat pattern is then continued throughout the skirt with channels created using drop stitches and yarn overs to later weave the i-cords into place. The sleeve stitches are then picked up and knitted in the established rib pattern. A pleating technique is then used before finalising the sleeves with a twisted ribb cuff. Finally, make the i-cords, weave and sew into place.

Recommended
Yarn / Yardage

Sample 1
Qing Fibre Mohair - 50g - 500m / 601 yrd
65% Super Kid Mohair, 35% Silk - Colourway: Bon Bon
approximately: 100, 115, 120 (135, 145, 160) 170, 185, 200 g

Qing Fibre Dashing Fingering - 100g - 400m / 437 yrd
100% Ultrafine South African Merino - Colourway: Teacup
approximately: 285, 320, 340 (375, 400, 445) 480, 515, 550 g

Sample 2
Qing Fibre Melted Baby Suri - 50 g - 175 meters / 191 yrds
65% Baby Suri Alpaca / 20% Merino Wool / 15% Silk - Colourway: Boreal Cloud
Approximately: 315, 350, 380 (420, 450, 500) 540, 580, 620 g

Contrasting Colour for working the i-cords: (Not included in total yardage)
Approx: 105, 120, 135 (150, 165, 180) 195, 210, 225m / 115, 131, 148 (164, 180, 197) 213, 230, 246Yrds

Sizes
1, 2, 3 (4, 5, 6) 7, 8, 9 - see schematics in photos

Needles
4mm (US 6) circular cable needle

Waistband
method 1 (knit each layer seperately): 5.5mm (US 9) interchangable circular cable needle with another similar size needles or stoppers. Alternatively 1x 5.5mm (US 9) and 1x same or similar size circular needle - to work the waistband.

Method 2 (double knitting): 5.5mm (US 9)circular needle

9mm (US 13) circular needle

9mm (US 13) (or similar) double pointed needle to work sleeve pleats

Adjust needle sizes as necessary to achieve gauge.

Gauge
18.5 sts x 24 rounds for 10 x 10 cm (4 x 4 inches) swatch in stockinette stitch using 5.5mm (US 9) needles and holding 1 strand each of sample yarn 1 or 1 strand alone of sample yarn 2.

13 sts x 14 rounds for 10x10cm (4 x 4 inches) in 6x3 rib stitch (k6, p3) using 9mm (US13) needles and holding 1 strand each of sample yarn 1 or 1 strand alone of sample yarn 2.

Notions
6x stitch markers (1 unique marker for BOR)

Waistband elastic 8 - 10cm wide and long enough to fit the circumference of your waist. (choose a colour that will be disguised by your yarn)

Tapestry needle

You may like to use ribbon or scrap fabric instead of I-cord’s for the skirt