The inspiration – La Belle Ferronnière
Inspired by Renaissance paintings, mimicking the the shape and style of corsets in the Renaissance period but with a faux rope centre fastening. This bodice can be styled many ways with many garments but will always add an historical elegance and femininity to your clothing.

The construction – “The Sistine chapel”
The bodice is knitted bottom up in the round. Once the bodice reaches the armpit, the front and back are separated and worked separately flat. The straps are joined together with a 3 needle bind off, and bust line and armholes are picked up and finished off with an I-cord edging.

The Level – “The Last Judgement”
Advanced beginner to intermediate. Any technique that you haven’t done before will feel daunting but with repetition it will become easier, whatever level you are, it is possible to achieve these techniques with practice and muscle memory. Attempt the things you are unsure of and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.

Yarn King Cole Glitz in Merlot 130/150/180/220/250g. Each skein is 100g or 290 metres.

Gauge: 18 stitches x 28 rows = 10cm

Needles: 5mm circular, 80cm for body
4mm circular, 80cm for neckline and armholes.
If you would like a tighter fit, you can drop the needle size

SIZING ✂️ “The Vitruvian Man”
It is important to check the measurements before choosing your size. The bodice shouldn’t be too tight and should have a small degree of positive ease (classic fit), as it is designed to be layered over other garments. Therefor the size you choose should be slightly larger than your actual bust and waist measurements. However, it can also be worn with negative ease if you wish for a tighter fit. In this instance choose a size smaller than your measurements, each size has around a 5cm stretch capacity. It is important to pay attention to the tailoring notes within the pattern to ensure the bodice fits you correctly, as proportions can vary. If the below sizes do not meet your requirements, you can either drop or up the needle size or cast on an amount that is proportionate to your size I.e, 2 stitches = approximately 1cm. Add on or deduct enough stitches to represent the degree of cm you need to adjust by. Follow the pattern, allowing for this stitch count difference.

Sizes - XS/S/M/L/XL/2XL/3XL
A Waist Circumference: 68 (73, 78, 82, 87, 91, 95) cm.
B Bust Circumference: 85 (90, 95, 100, 105, 110, 115) cm. (each measurement has around a 5cm stretch capacity)
C Torso Length: 19 (20, 20, 21, 21, 22, 22) cm. (Can be tailored)
D Armpit to bust height: 8 (9, 9, 11, 11, 13, 14) cm. (Can be tailored)
E Armhole depth: 21 (22, 22, 24, 25, 27, 28) cm. (Can be tailored)