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01/15/26 • •

Lorelai Knit Vest – Free Knit Vest Pattern from Turkey Trot 2024

Get ready to fall in love with layers 🧶 The Lorelai Knit Vest was the featured knitting project for Turkey Trot 2024, and now the full pattern is available as a free knit vest pattern right here on the blog.

Lorelai is a cozy, size-inclusive, adventurous beginner–friendly knit vest that’s perfect for throwing over a button-down shirt, long-sleeve tee, or even a simple dress. The Stockinette Windows texture, relaxed fit, and optional pockets give you that polished, “I totally meant to look this pulled together” vibe… even if you were just chasing the yarn ball five minutes ago.

A person wearing glasses and a navy knit vest over a white shirt smiles in a cozy room. The background features large windows, potted plants, and soft lighting. The person gestures slightly with their right hand near their chest. -Marly Bird

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. To learn more please visit my privacy policy here💖

Don’t forget to share your progress in the Marly’s Minions: Marly Bird BiCrafty Community on Facebook. We love cheering you on and seeing your color choices in action:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/MarlysMinions

If you haven’t joined the event yet, it’s not too late to knit the Lorelai Vest at your own pace. Head to the Turkey Trot 2024 info page to see how the make-along worked and grab extra details:
https://marlybird.com/blog/turkey-trot-2024/

Smiling woman wears a striped knit vest over a white shirt. Behind her, sample pattern pages are fanned out. Text reads "Ad-Free PDF!" and "BUY NOW." Discover the Free Knit Vest pattern, titled "Lorelai Knit Vest. -Marly Bird

📌 Get the Lorelai Knit Vest Turkey Trot Make-Along in the Marly Bird House
(Access inside the Marly Bird House with unlimited viewing and bonus material)

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What You’ll Love About the Lorelai Knit Vest

The Lorelai Knit Vest is designed to be:

  • Layer-friendly – Great over shirts, blouses, or dresses.
  • Size-inclusive – Written for XS through 4X–5X, with 2–4″ of positive ease.
  • Textured but approachable – The Stockinette Windows pattern keeps things interesting without being fussy.
  • Customizable – Optional pockets, easy length adjustments, and a clean neckline/armhole finish.
  • Beginner-friendly with support – Tons of video tutorials plus an option for a fully guided course inside Marly Bird House.

It’s worked in pieces from the bottom up, then seamed and finished with tidy edgings so your vest looks clean, professional, and totally gift-worthy (even if the gift is for yourself 😉).

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A smiling person with curly hair and glasses forms a heart shape with their hands. Behind them, the text reads "Marly Bird," "Weekly Newsletter," and "Your BigCrafty Bestie." Sporting a light cardigan, they share the joy of an amigurumi free crochet animal pattern. -Marly Bird

Skill Level – Is the Lorelai Knit Vest Right for You?

This is labeled Adventurous Beginner – which in Marly-speak means:

  • You’re comfortable with:
    • Casting on and binding off
    • Knit and purl stitches
    • Basic ribbing
  • You’re ready to try some new skills with guidance, like:
    • Simple shaping (decreases)
    • Reading a textured stitch pattern
    • Working optional pockets
    • Seaming and basic finishing

If you’ve done a scarf, cowl, or basic sweater and you’re craving something a little more interesting (but not overwhelming), the Lorelai Knit Vest is a fantastic next step.

And remember, you’re not doing this alone:

  • There are step-by-step video tutorials linked throughout the pattern.
  • You can ask questions in Marly’s Minions: Marly Bird BiCrafty Community.
  • You can upgrade to the ad-free PDF or take the course inside Marly Bird House if you want the full “Silver Platter” experience.
A collage featuring the Lorelai Knit Vest Lesson 1 includes images of a smiling woman in a knit vest, project photos, instructions with charts, video tutorials, bonus patterns, and the course is accessible on various devices. -Marly Bird

Yarn & Materials for the Lorelai Knit Vest

Yarn

The original Lorelai sample is worked in:

Colorway used in the sample: Autograph

You’ll need:

  • 3 (3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 5) skeins depending on your chosen size.
    (Full yardage details are given in the pattern section.)

Because this is a vest (no sleeves!) it’s a very reasonable yardage commitment for a garment, and the long-striping yarn does a lot of the visual heavy lifting for you.

⭐️ Looking for a similar sweater with sleeves? Check out the Paris Gellar Sweater

A smiling woman wears a purple knit vest on the cover of a PDF pattern titled "Paris Geller Knit Vest." Behind her are preview pages of the pattern. Text reads "Ad-Free PDF!" with a "Buy Now" button icon in the corner. -Marly Bird

You can shop for Roll With It Melange here:

If you can’t find the exact yarn, look for:

  • Worsted weight (#4) yarn
  • With nice drape (acrylic, wool, or blends all work)
  • Good stitch definition so the Stockinette Windows texture shows up

Needles

You’ll need:

  • Two 32″ [81 cm] US 8 [5 mm] circular needles
    • One holds the full width of the vest pieces.
    • The second is used when you work both upper fronts at the same time.

Even though the vest is worked flat in rows, the circular needles make it much more comfortable to hold the number of stitches you’ll have on the needles.

Notions

Have these handy:

  • Removable stitch markers (for marking edges, pattern sections, and shaping points)
  • Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and seaming
  • Stitch holders or spare circular needles
  • Scissors
  • A tape measure or ruler
  • Optional but recommended: blocking tools (blocking mats, pins, and a ruler to help check measurements)

You can find many of Marly’s favorite tools in the Marly Bird Amazon Storefront if you like to see exactly what she uses.

⭐️ Marly Bird Amazon Storefront ⭐️
A person wearing a purple and blue knit vest with stylish pockets over a white button-up shirt stands confidently with hand on hip. They're indoors, framed by blurred windows and a plant in the background. -Marly Bird
A person wearing a purple and gray knit vest with stylish armholes over a white shirt, accessorized with hoop earrings and a necklace with a round pendant inscribed with "love." The background is softly blurred. -Marly Bird
A person with curly hair stands with their back to the camera, showcasing the knit vest's intricate neckline. They're wearing a white shirt beneath, and shelves of colorful yarn enhance the cozy atmosphere. -Marly Bird
A person wearing a purple and blue knit vest with stylish pockets over a white button-up shirt stands confidently with hand on hip. They're indoors, framed by blurred windows and a plant in the background. -Marly Bird
A person with curly hair and glasses is smiling, standing on a patterned rug in a room with plants. They are wearing a white shirt under a knit vest in purple and gray, which perfectly shapes the shoulders, paired with black pants. -Marly Bird
A person with curly hair smiles brightly while pointing at the stylish pocket of their dark striped knit vest. They are wearing a light gray long-sleeve shirt underneath. The background features a cozy living room with a couch and decor. -Marly Bird

Sizing & Fit Details

The Lorelai Knit Vest is written for the following size range:

  • To Fit Sizes:
    XS (S, M, L–XL, 2X, 3X, 4X–5X)
  • Finished Bust Measurements:
    28 (34, 39½, 45, 51, 56.5, 62) inches
    [71 (86.5, 100.5, 114.5, 129.5, 143.5, 157.5) cm]
  • Finished Length:
    20½ (21, 23¾, 24½, 25¼, 28, 30½) inches
    [52 (53.5, 60.5, 62, 64, 71, 77.5) cm]

Designed to be worn with about 2–4″ of positive ease, so pick your size based on your actual bust and the amount of ease you prefer.

For example:

  • If your bust is 38″, you might choose:
    • Size M (39½”) for a slimmer fit, or
    • Size L–XL (45″) for a more relaxed, layering fit.

The schematic in the pattern gives detailed measurements so you can compare to a vest or sweater you already love.

Gauge – Start with the Swatch

I know, I know… swatching isn’t everyone’s favorite. But for a fitted garment like a vest, gauge really matters if you want your Lorelai to match the pattern measurements and use the listed yardage.

  • Gauge for this pattern:
    17 sts and 28 rows = 4″ x 4″ [10 x 10 cm]
    in Stockinette Windows pattern, after blocking

You’ll work your gauge swatch in pattern, not plain stockinette, so you can see exactly how the fabric behaves.

In the pattern you’ll find:

  • Full instructions for a Stockinette Windows gauge swatch worked over 36 stitches
  • Notes on how many repeats to work
  • How to measure gauge after binding off and relaxing/blocking the swatch

If you get:

  • Too many stitches per 4″ → Your gauge is too tight → Go up a needle size
  • Too few stitches per 4″ → Your gauge is too loose → Go down a needle size

Spending a little time here saves a lot of “Why is this so big/small?!” later.

A collage features a person striking various poses in a vibrant, multicolored Lorelai Knit Vest layered over a crisp white shirt. The bottom right reveals the vest laid flat. Text reads "Lorelai Knit Vest." Knitting supplies adorn the background, enhancing the cozy vibe. -Marly Bird

Construction Overview – How the Lorelai Knit Vest Is Built

Here’s the big-picture view of how you’ll knit Lorelai:

  1. Back
    • Worked bottom up.
    • Start with a ribbed hem, then transition into the Stockinette Windows pattern.
    • Shape the armholes with bind-offs and decreases.
    • Finish with shaping for the back neckline and shoulders.
  2. Front
    • Also worked bottom up, starting with the same ribbed hem.
    • Work into the Stockinette Windows pattern, with the option to add as-you-go pockets.
    • Shape the armholes, then split for the V-neck and work each side separately with shaping for a clean neckline.
  3. Optional Pockets
    • Pockets are worked as pocket linings that are joined back into the Front.
    • They’re hidden on the inside but give you that cozy, functional vest feel.
  4. Finishing & Edgings
    • Sew side seams and shoulder seams.
    • Pick up and knit around the armholes for a simple, clean edging.
    • Work the back neck edging and join the front neck stitches with a garter stitch graft for a polished finish.
    • Weave in ends and block.

Once you understand this flow, the pattern rows will make a lot more sense as you knit along.

A person with curly hair smiles brightly while pointing at the stylish pocket of their dark striped knit vest. They are wearing a light gray long-sleeve shirt underneath. The background features a cozy living room with a couch and decor. -Marly Bird

Optional Pockets – A Fun Skill Builder

One of the standout features of Lorelai is the option to add pockets worked as-you-go.

You’ll:

  • Mark pocket placement on the Front.
  • Bind off stitches where the pockets will open.
  • Use a separate ball of yarn to pick up stitches below that opening and work a pocket lining in stockinette.
  • Later, you’ll secure the pocket lining on the inside so it lays flat and doesn’t add bulk.

You can:

  • Work two pockets,
  • Work just one, or
  • Skip them entirely if you prefer a cleaner front.

This is a great way to learn pocket construction without having to guess at placement or sizing—the pattern does that work for you.

Video Tutorials to Support Your Knitting

To make this a true teaching pattern, there are tons of video links to help with specific techniques used in the Lorelai Knit Vest. Here are some of the skills covered:

All of these are linked inside the pattern so you can click and knit along with me step by step.

A smiling person with curly blonde hair, glasses, and a purple plaid vest over a white shirt stands indoors. Surrounded by bookshelves and home décor, they showcase their love necklace and ring—perhaps searching for free knitting and crochet patterns. -Marly Bird

Get the Lorelai Knit Vest Pattern Your Way

You’ve got three great options depending on how you like to learn and knit:

1. Free Pattern on the Blog

This very page includes the full written Lorelai Knit Vest pattern for free, supported by ads. You’ll get:

  • Written instructions for all sizes
  • Pattern stitches
  • Shaping details
  • Schematic images
  • Links to video tutorials

It’s perfect if you’re comfortable scrolling or printing directly from the blog.

2. Ad-Free, Printable PDF Pattern

If you’d rather knit without ads or distractions, the ad-free PDF is for you. It’s beautifully formatted and easy to print or use on a tablet.

The PDF includes:

  • Fully formatted written pattern for all sizes
  • Schematics in inches and centimeters
  • Stockinette Windows pattern chart for gauge
  • Full charts of front and back for all sizes (exclusive to the PDF)
  • Row-by-row checksheets so you can track your progress
  • Linked video tutorials in one tidy, convenient file
Smiling woman wears a striped knit vest over a white shirt. Behind her, sample pattern pages are fanned out. Text reads "Ad-Free PDF!" and "BUY NOW." Discover the Free Knit Vest pattern, titled "Lorelai Knit Vest. -Marly Bird

📌 Get the Lorelai Knit Vest Turkey Trot Make-Along in the Marly Bird House
(Access inside the Marly Bird House with unlimited viewing and bonus material)

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Marly Bird House

(Use your favorite pattern platform—this part is all about your convenience!)

3. Guided Course Inside Marly Bird House

If you love learning with step-by-step video support, check out the Lorelai Knit Vest workshop inside Marly Bird House:

  • Modules breaking the pattern into bite-sized lessons
  • Video walkthroughs for major sections and techniques
  • Great if you enjoy make-alongs, classes, or prefer to follow along visually

You can learn more and explore courses here:
https://marlybirdhouse.com

Once inside, look for the Turkey Trot 2024 / Lorelai Knit Vest content to dive in.

A purple and blue knitted garment is displayed next to yarn and needles. The image highlights “Knitting,” “Turkey Trot with Marly Bird,” and “Free Knit Vest Pattern” with colorful graphics for Turkey Trot 2024. -Marly Bird

Begin with the Gauge Swatch

Before you start the full vest, the pattern walks you through making a gauge swatch in the Stockinette Windows pattern.

You’ll:

  • Cast on a specific number of stitches (given in the pattern).
  • Work several repeats of the pattern rows.
  • Bind off, relax or block the swatch, then measure.

This step ensures:

  • Your bust and length measurements match the schematic.
  • You don’t run out of yarn partway through the project.
  • The fabric feels how you want it—cozy and drapey, not stiff or too loose.

If your gauge doesn’t match, adjust your needle size and try again. It’s worth it for a vest you’ll actually want to wear all the time.

Pattern Stitches Overview

The Lorelai vest uses:

  • Ribbing at the hem:
    • A simple 2 x 2 rib worked flat for a clean, stretchy edge.
  • Stockinette Windows pattern:
    • A combination of knit and purl sections that form “window” panels of texture.
    • There are two versions:
      • Standard pattern
      • Offset version for some sizes so the windows line up nicely across the bust.

The full row-by-row instructions for both versions are given in the pattern section, along with the chart used for the gauge swatch.

Seaming & Finishing Details

Once both pieces are knit, you’ll seam and finish:

  • Side seams – Worked with mattress stitch so they’re nearly invisible from the right side.
  • Shoulder seams – Also worked with mattress stitch, except for the live front stitches used for the neck finishing.
  • Armhole edgings – Stitches are picked up around each armhole, worked in a simple edging, and then bound off loosely.
  • Neck edging – Pick up around the back neck, then use garter stitch grafting to join to the live front shoulder stitches. This creates a smooth, continuous edge that looks very polished.

The pattern includes a written walkthrough of the garter stitch graft, so even if it’s a new skill, you’ll be guided through.

A person smiles while wearing a knit vest over a white shirt. The vest features shades of purple and blue. In the background, there is a couch with a pillow and a shelf with books. The image has text that says "Lorelia Knit Vest. -Marly Bird

Lorelai Knit Vest – Free Pattern Instructions

Designed by Marly Bird

SKILL LEVEL

Adventurous Beginner

MEASUREMENTS

To Fit Size

XS (S, M, L-XL, 2X, 3X, 4X-5X) 

Finished Measurements

(also see schematic)

Bust 28 (34, 39½, 45, 51, 56.5, 62)” [71 (86.5, 100.5, 114.5, 129.5, 143.5, 157.5) cm]
Length 20½ (21, 23¾, 24½, 25¼, 28, 30½)” [52 (53.5, 60.5, 62, 64, 71, 77.5) cm]

  • Designed to have 2-4” of positive ease

Gauge 

See Gauge Swatch Instructions Below

17 sts in and 28 rows in Stockinette Windows pattern = 4 x 4” [10 x 10 cm]

  • Note: Work a gauge swatch in the Stockinette Windows pattern stitch over 36 stitches and at least 3 full repeats, then rows 1-4 once more. Bind off and measure.

Begin with the Gauge Swatch

Before you start with the pattern, it is important you begin with a gauge swatch to confirm you are using the right size needles for you.

For the gauge swatch, use size 8 [5mm] needles and work up these instructions: 

Cast on 36

Row 1 (WS): Knit.

Rows 2-4: Knit.

Row 5: * K2, p8, k2; repeat from * to end.

Row 6: Knit.

Row 7: * K2, p8, k2; repeat from * to end.

Row 8: Knit.

Row 9: * K2, p8, k2; repeat from * to end.

Row 10: Knit.

Row 11: * K2, p8, k2; repeat from * to end.

Row 12: Knit.

Row 13: * K2, p8, k2; repeat from * to end.

Row 14: Knit.

Repeat rows 1-14 two or three times more, then rows 1-4 once more. Bind off. 

Measure the swatch.

Gauge: 17 sts in and 28 rows in Stockinette Windows pattern = 4 x 4” [10 x 10 cm]

  • If you get TOO MANY STITCHES = Go Up A Needle Size ⬆️
  • If you get TOO FEW STITCHES = Go Down A Needle Size ⬇️

MATERIALS

Yarn 

Red Heart, Roll With It Melange (100% acrylic, 389 yds / 356 m, 5.29 oz / 150 g CYCA #4 worsted) 

3 (3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 5) skeins: #Autograph

Note: Yarn amounts include an extra ball for color-matching when working the upper front sections.

Shop for yarn at Herrschners

Knitting Needles

Two 32” [81 cm] U.S. 8 [5 mm] circular needles, or size required for gauge.

⭐️ Note: Vest is worked back-and-forth in rows; a circular needle is used to hold the full length of the sts. A second needle is included for working both upper front sections at the same time.

Notions 

Removable Stitch markers

Tapestry needle 

Stitch Holders or Stitch Savers (I love using these)

Marly Bird Amazon Storefront

ABBREVIATIONS

K – Knit

K2tog – Knit Two Stitches Together

P – Purl

Pm – Place Marker

RS – Right Side

St(s) – Stitches

WS – Wrong Side

SPECIAL STITCHES

⭐️ Ssk (Slip, Slip, Knit): Slip 2 stitches, one at a time, as if to knit. Insert left hand needle into the front of these two stitches and knit them together from this position (1 stitch decreased)

PATTERN STITCHES 

Stockinette Windows Pattern (for sizes S, L-XL, 3X)

Worked over a multiple of 12 sts.

Row 1 (WS): Knit.

Row 2: Knit

Row 3: Knit

Row 4: Knit.

Row 5: * K2, p8, k2; repeat from * to end.

Row 6: Knit.

Row 7: * K2, p8, k2; repeat from * to end.

Row 8: Knit.

Row 9: * K2, p8, k2; repeat from * to end.

Row 10: Knit.

Row 11: * K2, p8, k2; repeat from * to end.

Row 12: Knit.

Row 13: * K2, p8, k2; repeat from * to end.

Row 14: Knit.

Repeat Rows 1-14 for Stockinette Windows Pattern.

Stockinette Windows Pattern (offset – for sizes XS, M, 2X, 4X-5X)

Worked over a multiple of 12 sts.

Row 1 (WS): Knit.

Row 2: Knit

Row 3: Knit

Row 4: Knit.

Row 5: P4, k2, * k2, p8, k2; repeat from * to end to last 6 sts, k2, p4.

Row 6: Knit.

Row 7: P4, k2, * k2, p8, k2; repeat from * to end to last 6 sts, k2, p4.

Row 8: Knit.

Row 9: P4, k2, * k2, p8, k2; repeat from * to end to last 6 sts, k2, p4.

Row 10: Knit.

Row 11: P4, k2, * k2, p8, k2; repeat from * to end to last 6 sts, k2, p4.

Row 12: Knit.

Row 13: P4, k2, * k2, p8, k2; repeat from * to end to last 6 sts, k2, p4.

Row 14: Knit.

Repeat Rows 1-14 for Stockinette Windows Pattern, offset.

SCHEMATIC 

Diagram of a knit vest featuring a sleeveless V-neck design. Lines annotate width and length with precise measurements in centimeters, detailing gauge variations and ribbing depth across different sizes. -Marly Bird
Detailed diagram of a V-neck sleeveless knit vest, showcasing measurements in inches and centimeters. Includes width, length, armhole, and neckline depth for sizes small to large. Each section highlights precise increments, perfect for accurate cast-on and ensuring the right gauge fit. -Marly Bird

CHART

Knitting chart for a knit vest features a grid showing rows 1-14 and stitches 1-12. Black dots indicate knit and purl stitches on right and wrong sides, perfect for achieving the desired gauge. Green border marks pattern repeat, with legend included at the bottom right. -Marly Bird

✅ Full charts for each size is exclusive to the ad-free pdf.

✅ Row-by-Row Checksheet exclusive to the ad-free pdf.

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NOTES

  • Directions are for the smallest size; changes for all other sizes are in parentheses. When only one number is given then that number applies to all sizes.
  • Vest is worked from the bottom up in 2 pieces, then seamed together. Optional pockets are worked as-you-go.

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I’m thrilled to share this amazing pattern with you, many patterns on my blog are absolutely free! I kindly request that you don’t copy and paste or distribute this pattern. Prefer an ad-free experience? Buy a digital PDF pattern for a small fee from one of my online stores for a seamless crafting journey. 

I appreciate your support and readership. You are the reason I can keep doing what I love and sharing it with others. So, thank you from the bottom of my yarn-loving heart! Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links at no cost to you.

Lorelai Knit Vest Pattern Instructions

BACK

Cast on 62 (74, 86, 98, 110, 122, 134) sts.

Row 1 (WS): K2, * p2, k2; repeat from * to end.

Row 2: P2, * k2, p2; repeat from * to end.

Repeat the last 2 rows 5 more times – 12 total rows worked in ribbing.

Next 2 rows:

Row 1 (WS): P1, work in Stockinette Windows Pattern (or offset version, depending on your selected size) to last st, p1.

Row 2: K1, work in Stockinette Windows Pattern (or offset version, depending on your selected size) to last st, k1.

Work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern for 82 (82, 96, 96, 96, 110, 124) more rows, keeping first and last st in Stockinette st, and ending after a Row 14 of pattern – 6 (6, 7, 7, 7, 8, 9) windows created lengthwise.

Shape Back Armholes

Next 2 Rows:

Row 1 (WS): Bind off 4 sts, p1, knit to last st, p1 – 58 (70, 82, 94, 106, 118, 130) sts.

Row 2: Bind off 4 sts, knit to end – 54 (66, 78, 90, 102, 114, 126) sts.

For last 5 sizes only (M and up):

Next 2 Rows:

Row 1 (WS): Bind off 4 sts, p1, knit to last st, p1 – x (x, 74, 86, 98, 110, 122) sts.

Row 2: Bind off 4 sts, knit to end – x (x, 70, 82, 94, 106, 118) sts.

For last 3 sizes only (2X and up):

Next 2 Rows:

Row 1 (WS): Bind off 4 sts, p1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1 – x (x, x, x, 90, 102, 114) sts.

Row 2: Bind off 4 sts, k1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, k1 – x (x, x, x, 86, 98, 110) sts.

For last 2 sizes only (3X and up):

Next 2 Rows:

Row 1 (WS): Bind off 4 sts, p1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1 – x (x, x, x, x, 94, 106) sts.

Row 2: Bind off 4 sts, k1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, k1 – x (x, x, x, x, 90, 102) sts.

For All Sizes:

Next 2 Rows:

Row 1 (WS): P1, Work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Row 2: K1, ssk, knit to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1 – 52 (64, 68, 80, 84, 88, 100) sts.

Repeat the last 2 rows 1 (1, 3, 3, 5, 7, 7) more times – 50 (62, 62, 74, 74, 74, 86) sts.

Work 42 (46, 46, 50, 50, 50, 52) more rows evenly in Stockinette Windows Pattern, keeping the first and last sts in Stockinette st, and ending after a Row #6 (10, 2, 6, 12, 4, 6) of pattern.

Separate For Neck

Mark center 12 (18, 18, 24, 24, 24, 24) sts, leaving 19 (22, 22, 25, 25, 25, 31) sts on either side.

Next Row (WS): P1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to center 12 (18, 18, 24, 24, 24, 24) sts, bind off center 12 (18, 18, 24, 24, 24, 24) sts, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1 – 19 (22, 22, 25, 25, 25, 31) sts remain for each Shoulder.

Shape Back Right Shoulder and Neck

Next 10 Rows:

Row 1 (RS): Knit.

Row 2: Bind off 4 sts at Neck edge, p1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1 – 15 (18, 18, 21, 21, 21, 27) sts.

Row 3: Knit.

Row 4: Bind off 4 sts at Neck edge, p1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1 – 11 (14, 14, 17, 17, 17, 23) sts.

Row 5: Bind off 2 (3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 5) at Shoulder edge, knit to end – 9 (11, 11, 13, 13, 13, 18) sts.

Row 6: P1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Row 7: Bind off 3 (3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 6) at Shoulder edge, knit to end – 6 (8, 8, 9, 9, 9, 12) sts.

Row 8: P1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Row 9: Bind off 3 (4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 6) at Shoulder edge, knit to end – 3 (4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 6) sts.

Row 10: P1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Bind off remaining 3 (4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 6) sts.

Shape Back Left Shoulder and Neck

With RS Facing, join new yarn to 19 (22, 22, 25, 25, 25, 31) still on the needle.

Next 9 Rows:

Row 1 (RS): Bind off 4 sts, knit to end – 15 (18, 18, 21, 21, 21, 27) sts.

Row 2: P1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Row 3: Bind off 4 sts, knit to end – 11 (14, 14, 17, 17, 17, 23) sts.

Row 4: Bind off 2 (3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 5) at Shoulder edge, p1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1 – 9 (11, 11, 13, 13, 13, 18) sts.

Row 5: Knit.

Row 6: Bind off 3 (3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 6) at Shoulder edge, p1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1 – 6 (8, 8, 9, 9, 9, 12) sts.

Row 7: Knit.

Row 8: Bind off 3 (4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 6) at Shoulder edge, p1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1 – 3 (4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 6) sts.

Row 9: Knit.

Bind off remaining 3 (4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 6) sts.

Smiling woman wears a striped knit vest over a white shirt. Behind her, sample pattern pages are fanned out. Text reads "Ad-Free PDF!" and "BUY NOW." Discover the Free Knit Vest pattern, titled "Lorelai Knit Vest. -Marly Bird
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FRONT

Cast on 62 (74, 86, 98, 110, 122, 134) sts.

Row 1 (WS): K2, * p2, k2; repeat from * to end.

Row 2: P2, * k2, p2; repeat from * to end.

Repeat the last 2 rows 5 more times – 12 total rows worked in ribbing.

Next 2 rows:

Row 1 (WS): P1, work in Stockinette Windows Pattern (or offset version, depending on your selected size) to last st, p1.

Row 2: K1, work in Stockinette Windows Pattern (or offset version, depending on your selected size) to last st, k1.

Work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern for 43 more rows, keeping first and last st in Stockinette st, and ending after a Row 3 of pattern.

A woman with glasses and curly hair, wearing the Lorelai Knit Vest over a white shirt, smiles in two poses. “Lorelai” and “Lesson 3” are written in purple text. The background shows a cozy, decorated room hinting at a free knit vest pattern. -Marly Bird

Optional Pockets

Note: You may choose to work one or two pockets, or no pockets.

Set-Up: With RS facing, place a marker on the needle after st #1 (7, 7, 13, 13, 13, 19); another after st #25 (31, 31, 37, 37, 37, 43) [first pocket placement made], and another after st #37 (43, 55, 61, 73, 85, 91), another after st #61 (67, 79, 85, 97, 109, 115) [second pocket placement made] – 1 (7, 7, 13, 13, 13, 19) sts remain at left edge, 4 markers placed, 24 sts marked for each Pocket.

Next row (Pocket bind-off row, RS): * Knit to next marker, remove marker, bind off 24 sts between markers, remove marker; repeat from * once more, knit to end.

Pocket Lining

Use a separate ball of yarn and needles to work Pocket Lining as follows (do not cut working yarn):

With WS facing and holding Front piece upside down, pick up and knit 24 sts in the purl-bumps closest to Pocket-bind off.

Work in Stockinette st for 12” [30.5 cm], beginning with a WS (purl) row, and ending with a RS (knit) row.

Knit 4 rows, then cut yarn and place all Pocket Lining sts on a holder or spare needle.

Work other Pocket Lining the same.

Rejoin Pocket

Next Row (WS): P1, work Row 5 of Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st using the held Pocket Lining sts in place of the bound-off Pocket sts, p1.

Work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern for 37 (37, 51, 51, 51, 65, 79) more rows, keeping first and last st in Stockinette st, and ending after a Row 14 of pattern – 6 (6, 7, 7, 7, 8, 9) windows created lengthwise.

Shape Front Armholes

Next Row (WS): Bind off 4 sts, p1, knit to last st, p1 – 58 (70, 82, 94, 106, 118, 130) sts.

For last 5 sizes only (M and up):

Next 2 Rows:

Row 1 (RS): Bind off 4 sts, knit to end – x (x, 78, 90, 102, 114, 126) sts.

Row 2: Bind off 4 sts, p1, knit to last st, p1 – x (x, 74, 86, 98, 110, 122) sts.

For last 3 sizes only (2X and up):

Next 2 Rows:

Row 1 (RS): Bind off 4 sts, knit to end – x (x, x, x, 94, 106, 118) sts.

Row 2: Bind off 4 sts, p1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1 – x (x, x, x, 90, 102, 114) sts.

For last 2 sizes only (3X and up):

Next 2 Rows:

Row 1 (RS): Bind off 4 sts, k1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, k1 – x (x, x, x, 86, 98, 110) sts.

Row 2: Bind off 4 sts, p1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1 – x (x, x, x, x, 94, 106) sts.

Split Front Neck

For all sizes:

With RS facing, identify the center 4-st Garter column, and place a marker on the needle just to the left of these 4 sts.

Next Row (neck split row, RS): Bind off 4 sts, k1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to marker, remove marker, mark the last 4 sts worked for picking up later (these sts are marked with Xs on the chart), turn work, place remaining 25 (31, 33, 39, 41, 43, 49) sts on a holder or spare needle for Right Front Shoulder – 29 (35, 37, 43, 45, 47, 53) sts on the needle for Left Front Shoulder.

Next Row (WS): P1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Shape Left Front Armhole and Neck

For Sizes S, L-XL, and 2X Only:

Next 2 Rows:

Row 1 (armhole and neck decrease row, RS): K1, ssk, knit to last 5 sts, k2tog, k3 – x (33, x, 41, 43, x, x) sts.

Row 2: K4, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Repeat the last 2 rows x (1, x, 3, 1, x, x) more times – x (31, x, 35, 41, x, x) sts.

For Sizes XS, M, 2X, 3X, and 4X-5X Only:

Next 4 Rows:

Row 1 (armhole and neck decrease row, RS): K1, ssk, knit to last 5 sts, k2tog, k3 – 27 (x, 35, x, 39, 45, 51) sts.

Row 2: K4, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Row 3 (armhole decrease row, RS): K1, ssk, knit to end – 26 (x, 34, x, 38, 44, 50) sts.

Row 4: K4, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Repeat the last 4 rows 0 (x, 1, x, 1, 3, 3) more times – 26 (x, 31, x, 35, 35, 41) sts.

For All Sizes:

Next 4 Rows:

Row 1 (neck decrease row, RS): Knit to last 5 sts, k2tog, k3 – 25 (30, 30, 34, 34, 34, 40) sts.

Row 2: K4, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Row 3: Knit.

Row 4: K4, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Repeat the last 4 rows 7 (11, 11, 12, 12, 12, 11) more times – 18 (19, 19, 22, 22, 22, 29) sts.

For Sizes XS and 4X-5X Only:

Next 6 Rows:

Row 1 (neck decrease row, RS): Knit to last 5 sts, k2tog, k3 – 17 (x, x, x, x, x, 28) sts.

Row 2: K4, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Row 3: Knit.

Row 4: K4, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Row 5: Knit.

Row 6: K4, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Repeat the last 6 rows 1 (x, x, x, x, x, 0) more times – 16 (x, x, x, x, x, 28) sts.

For All Sizes:

Next 2 Rows:

Row 1 (neck decrease row, RS): Knit to last 5 sts, k2tog, k3 – 15 (18, 18, 21, 21, 21, 27)

Row 2: K4, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Shape Left Front Shoulder

Next 7 Rows:

Row 1 (RS): Bind off 2 (3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 5) sts, knit to end – 13 (15, 15, 17, 17, 17, 22) sts.

Row 2: K4, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Row 3: Bind off 3 (3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 6) sts, knit to end – 10 (12, 12, 13, 13, 13, 16) sts.

Row 4: K4, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Row 5: Bind off 3 (4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 6) sts, knit to end – 7 (8, 8, 9, 9, 9, 10) sts.

Row 6: K4, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

Row 7: Bind off 3 (4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 6, 6) sts, knit to end – 4 sts.

Place remaining 4 sts on a holder. Cut yarn and leave a long tail.

Shape Right Front Armhole and Neck

For this section, cycle through your ball of yarn to match the color of the first Left Front row worked at neck split.

Next 2 Rows:

Row 1 (pick up row, RS): With RS facing but working into WS of work, and using new color-matched yarn, pick up and knit the purl bumps of the 4 marked sts at neck split, then knit across all held Right Front sts – 29 (35, 37, 43, 45, 47, 53) sts.

Row 2: P1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last st, p1.

For Sizes S, L-XL, and 2X Only:

Next 2 Rows:

Row 1 (armhole and neck decrease row, RS): K3, ssk, knit to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1 – x (33, x, 41, 43, x, x) sts.

Row 2: P1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last 4 sts, k4.

Repeat the last 2 rows x (1, x, 3, 1, x, x) more times – x (31, x, 35, 41, x, x) sts.

For Sizes XS, M, 2X, 3X, and 4X-5X Only:

Next 4 Rows:

Row 1 (armhole and neck decrease row, RS): K3, ssk, knit to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1 – 27 (x, 35, x, 39, 45, 51) sts.

Row 2: P1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 3 (armhole decrease row, RS): Knit to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1  – 26 (x, 34, x, 38, 44, 50) sts.

Row 4: P1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last 4 sts, k4.

Repeat the last 4 rows 0 (x, 1, x, 1, 3, 3) more times – 26 (x, 31, x, 35, 35, 41) sts.

For All Sizes:

Next 4 Rows:

Row 1 (neck decrease row, RS): K3, ssk, knit to end – 25 (30, 30, 34, 34, 34, 40) sts.

Row 2: P1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 3: Knit.

Row 4: P1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last 4 sts, k4.

Repeat the last 4 rows 7 (11, 11, 12, 12, 12, 11) more times – 18 (19, 19, 22, 22, 22, 29) sts.

For Sizes XS and 4X-5X Only:

Next 6 Rows:

Row 1 (neck decrease row, RS): K3, ssk, knit to end – 17 (x, x, x, x, x, 28) sts.

Row 2: P1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 3: Knit.

Row 4: P1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last 4 sts, k4.

Row 5: Knit.

Row 6: P1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last 4 sts, k4.

Repeat the last 6 rows 1 (x, x, x, x, x, 0) more times – 16 (x, x, x, x, x, 28) sts.

For All Sizes:

Next Row (neck decrease row, RS): K3, ssk, knit to end  – 15 (18, 18, 21, 21, 21, 27)

Shape Right Front Shoulder

Next 7 Rows:

Row 1 (WS): Bind off 2 (3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 5) sts, p1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last 4 sts, k4 – 13 (15, 15, 17, 17, 17, 22) sts.

Row 2: Knit.

Row 3: Bind off 3 (3, 3, 4, 4, 4, 6) sts, p1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last 4 sts, k4  – 10 (12, 12, 13, 13, 13, 16) sts.

Row 4: Knit.

Row 5: Bind off 3 (4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 6) sts, p1, work in established Stockinette Windows Pattern to last 4 sts, k4 – 7 (8, 8, 9, 9, 9, 10) sts.

Row 6: Knit.

Row 7: Bind off 3 (4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 6) sts, k4 – 4 sts.

Place remaining 4 sts on a holder; do not cut yarn.

FINISHING

Sew side seams with mattress stitch. Leave the ribbing open for a vent. 

Sew Pocket inside seams, if applicable.

Sew Shoulder seams with mattress stitch, except for the 4 live sts at each Front Shoulder.

A partially knitted Lorelai Knit Vest lies flat in purple and gray yarn, with colorful clips along the edges. A ball of matching yarn rests nearby on a white surface. The knitting features textured, rectangular patterns—a perfect free knit vest pattern project. -Marly Bird
A close-up of a Lorelai Knit Vest, featuring shades of purple, gray, and blue, with colorful plastic stitch markers clipped along the center seam. The matching knitted sleeve hints at this free knit vest pattern’s coordinated style. -Marly Bird
A hand holds a partially knitted Lorelai Knit Vest, crafted with variegated yarn in shades of purple, blue, and burgundy. Knitting supplies and tools are visible in the background on a white surface. Try this free knit vest pattern today!. -Marly Bird

Armhole Edging

With RS facing, and starting and ending at armhole seam, pick up and knit 1 st for every bound off st and 2 sts for every 3 row-edge sts.

Knit 3 rows, then bind off all sts loosely knitwise.

Sew Armhole Edging seam with mattress stitch.

Back Neck Edging

With RS facing, pick up and knit 1 st for every bound off st and 2 sts for every 3 row-edge sts across Back Neck edge. Cut yarn.

Place 4 live sts from Right Front Shoulder back onto the needle.

Join new yarn with RS facing, and work Garter St bind-off across Back Neck sts as follows:

Row 1 (RS): K3, k2tog, turn work.

Row 2: Knit.

Repeat the last 2 rows until all Back Neck sts have been used, and 8 total sts remain (4 sts from each Front Shoulder), ending after a WS (knit) row.

Using Garter Stitch Grafting (also see Video Tutorials), join together the remaining 4 sts at each Front Shoulder, creating the missing RS row in the process.

Place the 4 front stitches from a holder onto a needle and hold to back. The purl stitches should be facing you. The 4 stitches on the needle after the back neck edge are in the front and the purl stitches should also be facing you. Hold both needles in left hand.

With the tail from the back needle and a tapestry needle, continue as follows: 

Set Up –

Front: Insert needle as if to purl, leave on.
Back: Insert needle as if to purl, leave on. 

Repeat – 

Front: Insert needle as if to knit, drop the stitch off the front needle. Insert into the next stitch as if to purl, leave on.
Back: Insert needle as if to knit, drop the stitch off the back needle. Insert into the next stitch as if to purl, leave on. 

Repeat the last set of instructions to the last stitch on each needle. 

Last Stitch –

Front: Insert needle as if to knit, drop the stitch off the front needle. 

Back: Insert needle as if to knit, drop the stitch of the back needle. 

Fasten off. 

Weave in all loose ends.

A smiling person with curly blonde hair, glasses, and a purple plaid vest over a white shirt stands indoors. Surrounded by bookshelves and home décor, they showcase their love necklace and ring—perhaps searching for free knitting and crochet patterns. -Marly Bird

FAQ – Lorelai Knit Vest

Do I have to knit the pockets?
Nope! The pockets are totally optional. The pattern explains how to add them as-you-go, but you can skip that section if you prefer a smoother front.

Is this pattern good for confident beginners?
Yes. If you’re comfortable with knit/purl and ready to learn shaping, reading simple pattern repeats, and basic finishing, Lorelai is a great next step—especially with all the video support.

Can I use a solid color yarn instead of a self-striping yarn?
Absolutely. A solid or heathered yarn will make the Stockinette Windows texture really pop. Variegated or long-striping yarns give more color play. Just be sure you’re using a worsted weight yarn and check your gauge.

Can I make the vest longer or shorter?
Yes. You can add or remove length in the body (before the armhole shaping). Just keep in mind this will change your yarn usage.

Where can I ask questions if I get stuck?
You have options:

  • Post in Marly’s Minions: Marly Bird BiCrafty Community on Facebook.
  • Ask inside the Marly Bird House workshop if you’re taking the course.
  • Leave a comment on the blog post, and we’ll try to help as soon as possible.

Is there a crochet version of this vest?
This specific pattern is knit, but there are plenty of crochet garments and Turkey Trot projects on MarlyBird.com and inside Marly Bird House if you’re bi-crafty.

Final Thoughts – Share Your Lorelai Knit Vest

The Lorelai Knit Vest is one of those pieces you’ll reach for over and over again. It’s cozy without being bulky, stylish without being fussy, and packed with little teaching moments that help you grow as a knitter.

When you finish (or even when you’re still mid-knit), I’d love to see:

  • Photos in Marly’s Minions: Marly Bird BiCrafty Community
  • Your makes on social media—tag @themarlybird and use #marlybird and #mmmdi (marly made me do it)
  • Your project pages on Ravelry if you use it

Whether you’re knitting from the free pattern, following along with the ad-free PDF, or taking the course inside Marly Bird House, I’m so excited to be your BiCrafty Bestie cheering you on through every stitch. 💖

❤️ Your BiCrafty Bestie,
Marly Bird

A cartoon avatar of a person with glasses and a brown bun smiles warmly. Their green shirt and black jacket add a stylish touch, while colorful hearts surround them like loving temperature blankets, stitching together an aura of love and positivity. -Marly Bird

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The One and Only, Marly

Marly is a knitwear and crochet designer (and yarn addict) that is here to help you learn how to knit and crochet in a way that's fun and approachable.

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