The idea for the Ryoanji skirt came from Helga Isager’s trip to Japan. Garments with ribbed details seemed to be everywhere and she found it interesting how you can emphasize shape with such a simple technique. The staggered rib reminds her of Japanese Zen gardens, such as the famous Ryōan-ji in Kyoto. The skirt has a flattering fit for all kinds of bodies. Pair it with a boxy shirt and boots for a relaxed look!

SIZES
1 (2, 3, 4, 5) (6, 7, 8, 9)

Recommended ease: 1.5–2.25” / 4–5.5 cm of negative ease.

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
Waist Circumference: 27.25 (30.5, 33.5, 36.75, 40) (43.25, 46.5, 49.5, 52.75)“ / 68 (76, 84, 92, 100) (108, 116, 124, 132) cm.
Hip Circumference: 34.5 (37.5, 40.5, 43.5, 46.5) (49.5, 52.5, 55.5, 58.5)” / 86.5 (94, 101.5, 109, 116.5) (124, 131.5, 139, 146.5) cm.
Total Length Mid Back: 33” / 84 cm (adjustable).

MATERIALS
Yarn: 6 (7, 7, 8, 8) (8, 9, 9, 10) skeins of Isager Sock Yarn by Isager (40% alpaca, 40% merino wool, 20% nylon, 211 yds / 193 m – 50 g), colourway 7.

Or approx. 1266 (1477, 1477, 1688, 1688) (1688, 1899, 1899, 2110) yds / 1164 (1358, 1358, 1552, 1552) (1552, 1746, 1746, 1940) m of fingering-weight yarn.

Alternative yarn suggestions are for example Premium Silk by Regia or Alpaca Soxx 4-ply by Lang Yarns.

Needles: 2 x US 1.5 / 2.5 mm 24” / 60 cm circular needles, US 2.5 / 3 mm 24” / 60 cm circular needles.

Notions: Stitch markers (2 removable), stitch holder, 1” / 2.5 cm wide waist elastic, scrap yarn or stitch wire for provisional CO.

GAUGE
30 sts x 40 rnds to 4” / 10 cm on US 1.5 / 2.5 mm needles in St St, after blocking.

32 sts x 32 rnds to 4” / 10 cm on US 2.5 / 3 mm needles in Rib, un-stretched.

NOTES
The skirt is worked from the top down, making it very easy to adjust the length. The length can be adjusted after starting the slit. The skirt is made to be close fitting. After the folded edge at the waist, Japanese short rows are worked to make the back of the skirt longer, providing a better fit. The skirt has beautiful rib details created by working increases and staggering the rib.

The skirt is designed to be worn with the slit on the back. However, it is possible to wear it for example on one side, as you can see in the photos.