Description

Jiffy Vest – 1970s Knitting Pattern: Instant PDF Download

Size: To Fit Chest/Bust 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 Inches (71–91 cm)

Chunky yarn, big needles and an afternoon or two: that is the spirit of this 1970s vintage vest pattern. A broad garter stitch yoke flows into a skirt of eyelet lace panels, finished with short cap sleeves and twisted cord ties at the neck instead of buttons. It is a classic quick knit for layering over a turtleneck or a blouse, sized so a child, a teen and an adult can all knit matching versions. Texture, openwork and an easy shape make this buttonless vest a delightful retro wardrobe piece.

Design & Construction Details

Skill Level: Intermediate.
Construction: Back and two fronts are worked flat from the bottom up, starting with a garter stitch hem and moving to a four-row eyelet lace pattern. Extra stitches are cast on at the armholes for the garter stitch yoke and short sleeves, then shoulders and neck are shaped. Front borders and the neck border are knitted and sewn on, and two twisted cords form the ties.
Finished Measurements: To fit chest/bust 28 (30, 32, 34, 36) inches / 71 (76, 81, 86, 91) cm; length 17 (17½, 18, 18½, 19) inches / 43 (44, 46, 47, 48) cm.
Pattern Style: Written in standard UK knitting terms, without stitch charts.
Stitches: Garter stitch, stockinette (stocking) stitch, four-row eyelet lace (yfwd, ssk, k2tog), slip-slip-knit decrease.

Recommended Materials & Tools

Yarn: Patons Pablo — 5 (6, 6, 7, 7) × 100 g balls.
Substitute Yarn: Modern bulky weight yarn such as Patons Highland Bulky Yarn.
Knitting Needles Size: 7 mm (UK 2) and 7½ mm (UK 1) (or size needed to obtain gauge).
Notions: Tapestry needle for seams and weaving in ends.
Gauge: 5½ stitches and 8 rows = 2″ (5 cm) in stockinette stitch on 7½ mm needles.

This is a digitally restored PDF knitting pattern
Upon purchase, you will receive an instant digital download — a clean, easily readable PDF. The original vintage instructions have been digitally enhanced, reformatted, and checked for clarity, ensuring a smooth crafting experience from start to finish.