Johnson

• Description
• Pattern Information
• Techniques

• Johnson is a relaxed lace knit top with grown on sleeves and a round neck combining to create a 'T-shirt' top. The all-over lace pattern and dainty picot edgings added to neckline and sleeves come together to result in a very feminine, delicate sweater - the original of which can be found in the Shetland Museum archives and was knitted by Christina Johnson in the 1950s and whilst this is very similar to many patterns available at this time, this particular garment had no pattern.

  Johnson is knitted in the round from the bottom up until the armhole is reached, at this point additional stitches are cast on for the sleeves and the upper front and back sections are worked separately and flat from this point. A centre back neck opening is worked creating a beautiful framework to spotlight your favourite vintage buttons! The top is ultimately joined back together across the shoulders and a picot edging is then added to the neckband and sleeves for a final decorative flourish. Lightweight and airy, this the perfect knit to wear on warmer days.

  Johnson is knitted using Susan Crawford Fenella, a 2 ply (vintage 3ply weight) yarn, worsted spun for a soft handleand is the perfect yarn for lace knitting with great stitch definition. Johnson is shown here in shade Porcellana.

  The garment shown in the photographs is the first size worn with approximately 4cm (1.5in) of positive ease.

  The pattern includes instructions for 6 sizes to fit chest measurements 76 - 142cm (56in) and is designed to be worn with positive ease built into the pattern. The pattern contains clear written instructions plus a chart for the lace pattern. A comprehensive schematic diagram and sizing chart are also included.

• Yarn
  Susan Crawford Fenella, 2 Ply, 100% British wool (125m / 136yds per 25g skein)

  6 (8, 10, 11, 13, 15) skeins, shade Porcellana
  

  Suggested needles
  2.5mm (US 1.5) circular needle (40cm in length)
  2.5mm (US 1.5) circular needle (80cm in length)
  3mm (US 3) circular needle (80cm in length)
  Set of 3mm (US 3) DPNs
  1 pair 3mm (US 3) needles

  Gauge
  33 sts and 36 rows = 10cm (4in) over stitch pattern knitted in the round, after blocking. We obtained this gauge using 3mm needles

  Notions
  Stitch markers
  5 buttons
  Sewing needle and matching thread

• Basic knit and purl stitches
  Lace knitting
  Following a lace chart
  Unusual construction methods
  Sewing up
  

Yarn kits are also available
Purchase your yarn kit here