WFMW - Free pattern - very simple slipover vest (knitting)

This very simple free knitting pattern is ideal for charity knitting. I first created it several years ago for Knit-a-Square, who works with AIDS orphans and other vulnerable children in South Africa and Zimbabwe.

As I explained earlier, a slipover is a vest which can be worn directly on the skin if needed. It therefore needs to be very soft and stretchy. It is a much looser knit than would normally be used so there should be lots of give.

This pattern required knit stitch only - no purl, increasing or decreasing. This makes it prefect for beginners. If you think you would like more of a challenge, try the medium difficulty slipover.

It is important that the slipover is not too short - if in doubt, a little longer is better. Also ensure that you leave plenty of room for the armholes - about a third of the total length. Sadly some vests which have been sent to KAS cannot be used because the arm holes are too small.

The slipover I made in the pictures was made with leftover bits of very soft 100% wool yarn, which is why it has the stripey appearance. (It's the same slipover, it just looks different front and back.) You can make your slipover all in one colour, the four pieces in different colours, or stripey like mine. For more ideas on colour combinations have a look here.

Slip over pattern Very easy knitting – knit stitch only.

This slip over is made by knitting two large rectangles for front and back, and then two straps. All four rectangles are sewn together at the end.

Use 7.5 mm needles and soft yarn – anything from 4 ply (two strands) to 8 ply. Consider using two strands of baby yarn. Natural fibre a good next to the skin, just ensure that the yarn you use isn't scratchy.

Large rectangle – make two (one for the front, one for the back)

Work in garter stitch (knit every row)

*NB 'Size' referes to the size of the finished garment

Size	Number of stitches to cast on	Number of rows
9 inches by 12 inches	32	84
10 inches by 13 inches	35	91
11 inches by 15 inches	39	105
12 inches by 16 inches	42	112
13 inches by 18 inches	46	126

Straps – make two

Work in garter stitch (knit every row)

Size	Number of stitches to cast on	Number of rows
9 inches by 12 inches	10	30
10 inches by 13 inches	10	30
11 inches by 15 inches	12	32
12 inches by 16 inches	12	34
13 inches by 18 inches	15	34

Sew together

Sew straps between front and back rectangles as shown

Fold in half, sew up side seams (blue to blue and green to green) leaving the top third of garment open for arm holes. Do not make the arm holes too small.

Weave in ends.

For postal instructions on how to get your slipover to AIDS orphans and other vulnerable children, click here. To see slipovers and other knitting in action, have a look here.

To see other ways that Work for Me to help those in our local and global community, check our Kristen's blog.