Inspired by the season’s Renaissance Fairs and Celtic Festivals, the innovative construction and elegant stitches of this princely vest are a delight to crochet. The herringbone double crochet stitch is easy to learn and creates an intricate-looking, richly textured fabric with a soft and comfortable drape. The lack of shoulder seams adds durability and comfort under his shining armor; instead, the seams are placed in a decorative V across the back. A border of spike cluster stitches along the back inset accents his charming broad shoulders. Indulge your Renaissance Fair fantasies with dragon buttons and royal colors, or opt for subtler woodland hues for your righteous Robin Hood.

We recommend choosing a size that is 4” larger than your measured size, for a comfortable, tailored fit.

To celebrate today’s “Renaissance men” and women in both art and science, 10% of Kristen’s proceeds from this pattern will be donated to the Union of Concerned Scientists (www.ucsusa.org) and MuralMusicArts.org. Kristen herself is both a scientist and an artist, and works as a professional wildlife biologist. See more of her innovative designs at http://www.ravelry.com/designers/kristen-hein-strohm.

Button sources:

• Hand-cast silver turtle buttons featured in the original vest are available at www.escottartgalleries.com/charles. (This very sweet man also made our custom wedding rings!)
• Machine-cast metal dragon buttons featured in the Interweave Accessories vest are available at www.ascuteasabutton.com.

Yarn alternatives:
Cascade Soft Spun
Cascade 220 Heathers
Berroco Peruvia
Madelinetosh Vintage
Spud & Chloe Sweater
Karabella Merino Superwash
Karabella Aurora 8
Fiberphile Super Squish Worsted
Squoosh Fiber Arts Merino Cashmere Worsted
Rowan Pure Wool Aran
Rowan Cashmere Tweed
Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Alpaca/Wool
Blue Sky Alpacas Worsted Organic Cotton
Valley Yarns Lenox
Blue Moon Fiber Arts Gaea
Shokay Shambala Yak
Lana Grossa Bingo
Berroco Lustra