(TEST IS FULL) TEST CALL: Chorus Camisole

TEST IS NOW FULL.

Deadline: 4th-Aug-24

We're starting a test for #choruscamisole - Sport weight yarn camisole worked seamlessly from the top down.

Note that this is an intermediate difficulty pattern.

We're looking for 1-2 testers of each size below who can complete this project by the 4th of August, 2024.

Full disclosure: I'm incorporating horizontal bust darts into a design for the first time to create better-fitting clothes for larger sizes. I've made several assumptions that I cannot test on myself, so I'm seeking testers willing to experiment with me.

The pattern includes a short-row section that adds more length to the centre front than the sides, aiming to accommodate breasts. The calculations are based on some rudimentary principles to approximate grading, assuming the bust cup size increases with the garment size. Though this isn't entirely accurate, it's a starting point.

If you've selected size with the bust dart option, when you get to this section, please keep me up to date with your progress and how it's working out. Note that we are working on one side at a time, and the experimental area is relatively small in terms of knitting. This will let you quickly determine whether it will fit or not.

If you discover that the calculations won't work for your body type, I hope you'll volunteer your measurements, and we can collaborate to tailor a version specifically for you.

Through this experience, I aim to create a more customisable pattern to share with other knitters.

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

Finished upper bust circumference: 

• 75 (85, 93.5, 101.5, 110, 118.5, 126.5, 135, 143.5) cm
• 30 (34, 37.25, 40.75, 44, 47.25, 50.75, 54, 57.25)”

Designed to be worn with 0-5 cm / 0-2” negative ease around the chest.

To choose the most appropriate size, measure the wearer's chest and add the preferred ease. Or measure the circumference of an already-owned top that fits well. Then find the closest finished chest circumference.

To apply for testing, please fill out this form: https://go.zaneteknits.com/apply-to-test

Other details of the design:

Yarn: Sport weight. Depending on the length of the top, allow approximately):

Main colour (MC)

• 330 (380, 410, 460, 495, 535, 565, 605, 650) m
• 360 (415, 450, 505, 540, 585, 615, 660, 710) yds

Contrast colour (CC)

• 100 (105, 115, 120, 125, 130, 140, 145, 150) m
• 110 (115, 125, 130, 135, 145, 150, 155, 160) yds

Yarn used in the sample (Size 2) is 3 balls of De Rerum Natura Antigone (100% Linen; 260 m [285 yds] / 100 g): 2 balls of colourway Lune as main colour and 1 ball of colourway Fefe Tonka as contrast colour.

Gauge: 24 sts & 32 rows = 10 cm / 4” in Stockinette stitch on larger needles, blocked.

Suggested needles: 

• 2.75 mm (US 2) circulars 60-100 cm / 24-40” long for main fabric. 
• 2.25 mm (US 1) circulars 60-100 cm / 24-40” long for finishing.

Notions: Stitch markers, locking stitch markers, spare needle for joining the fronts at the center, row counter, scissors, tape measure, stitch holders or waste yarn, tapestry needle.

Techniques used: Backwards loop cast-on, twisted lifted increases, knitting in the round, i-cord, Knotted k2tog bind-off.

Construction notes: The camisole is worked seamlessly from the top down, beginning with the individual tops of the fronts. Triangles are shaped using twisted lifted increases. Once both fronts are completed, they are joined by casting on stitches for the back using a backwards loop cast-on. The work continues flat, with increases shaping the front neckline down to the underbust. For larger sizes, short row bust darts are added for better fit.

The piece is then joined in the round, with a portion of the front overlapping. Optional waist shaping can be added with decreases towards the waist, followed by increases to accommodate the hips. The body is finished with a decorative edge using two colours and a knotted k2tog bind-off.

The front and back are connected with two i-cord straps. Each strap is initiated at the back by picking up three stitches and worked to a comfortable length before being attached to the corresponding front. The same decorative edge as on the body is applied to stitches picked up around the armholes and along the neckline and the overlapping front.