Orchid Blouse by Kristina Mentakis

Orchid Blouse

Knitting
October 2015
yarn held together
Lace
+ Lace
= Fingering (14 wpi) ?
22 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches
in Stockinette
US 4 - 3.5 mm
1100 - 1800 yards (1006 - 1646 m)
XS, S, M, L, XL
English
This pattern is available as a free Ravelry download

With a skirt reminiscent of the sweeping petals of an orchid, delicate yet refined. They represent grace and sweetness, but leave the impression of rarity, just like you will in the Orchid top. The Orchid blouse is knit bottom up, in the round until separating for the sleeves. Lace weight yarn is held double for the body of the garment, and single for the delicate mesh collar. A modified sweetheart neckline adds an additional element of style, and a subtle hint of femininity without being too revealing. The Orchid blouse is sure to turn heads whether you pair it with jeans or dress it up for an evening out.

This pattern is part of my senior thesis for Baylor University’s Honors Program - almost 100% of the proceeds will be donated to charity (full purchase price minus fees). Because of licensing, I can’t specify which organization I’ll be supporting, but I will be contributing to a nonprofit that is well-known for fighting breast cancer. If you have any questions regarding progress or accountability, don’t hesitate to contact me.

Sizes:
XS (S, M, L, XL)
Note: Model is wearing XS with 2” negative ease
Dimensions:
31 (33, 35, 37.5, 40)” at bust
Recommended 1-2” Negative Ease at bust
53 (56, 59, 61.5, 64.5)” at hips
Yarn:
1 (2, 2, 2, 2) skeins Shaky K Eagles
(1100 yds. each) - 2 ply laceweight in Orchid Mix - 100% Merino Wool, held double.
Note: Requires approx. 550 (640, 710, 780, 870) yds. in substitute yarn, if gauge obtained by holding single or 1100 (1280, 1420, 1560, 1740) yds. if holding double. Will need approx. 100 yds. lace weight yarn for neckline.
Needles:
Size 4 (3.5 mm) 20” or 24” circular needles or size needed to obtain gauge.
Gauge:
In stockinette - 22 sts. and 28 rows = 4” (10cm) after blocking
To get the fit you desire, please check your gauge.
Additional:
1 tapestry needle, 2 stitch markers, stitch holder or waste yarn.