The Beekeeper’s Waistcoat was one of the first designs I ever released, and the very first with multiple sizes. I am still so in love with the design, but thought it could do with a bit of a freshen up and decided to re-make it in a DK weight yarn (instead of bulky) to make it a more versatile item.

It still contains all the details from the first pattern; a vest so busy little arms can be free, gorgeous honeycomb cables up the sides to add interest, and a good chunk of garter stitch and stockinette stitch to keep the project growing quickly.

I hope you enjoy the refreshed version of this vest as much as I do.

A huge thank you to my tech editor and the testers for their help with this pattern!

YARN
Bandit DK, 100% machine washable wool, 101m/50g. 2 balls required for sizes Newborn - 24 months, 3 balls for sizes 3 years and 4 years

YARDAGE
120 -320m/131 - 350 yards

NEEDLES
4mm/US size 6 needles

NOTIONS
Four stitch markers
Needle for sewing in ends
Waste yarn or stitch holders
Cable needle
Additional 4mm/US size 6 needle for bind off
4 buttons = sizes Newborn, 3m, 6m and 12m
5 buttons = sizes 18m and 24 m
6 buttons = sizes 3 and 4 years

GAUGE
21 sts/29 rows = 4 inches/10cm in stockinette stitch (blocked).

SIZES
Newborn, 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, 2 years, 3 years, 4 years.

STITCHES
k = knit
p = purl
CO = cast on
BO = bind off
sts = stiches
k2tog = knit two stitches together
ssk = slip, slip, knit
ssp = slip, slip, purl
C4B = cable 4 back. Slip 2 stitches onto a cable needle and hold behind work. Knit 2 stitches off main needle, then the 2 stitches off the cable needle.
C4F = cable 4 front. Slip 2 stitches onto a cable needle and hold in front of work. Knit 2 stitches off main needle, then the 2 stitches off the cable needle.
inc = increase one stitch by knitting in the front and back of one stitch.