Anne Elliot has always been one of my favorite Jane Austen characters. This simple but pretty and feminine top would be just the thing for the quiet, self-possessed Anne to wear on a pleasant day walking along the seawall in Bath or perhaps strolling in the gardens of the Elliot family home, Kellynch Hall. This project incorporates several features of Regency-era style: a high waistline, small gathered sleeves, and a wrap-front closure. The sweater is knitted from the bottom up, all in one piece to the armholes, back and forth on circular needles to accommodate the length, and then is divided for the front and back. It features a band of lace patterning around the bottom hem, tapering to the raised waistline. The bodice is knitted with a deep V-neck with a simple eyelet lace pattern. The front edges of the neckline are trimmed with a simple knit-on picot edging. The bodice closes with an interior set of snaps, and an exterior ribbon tie threaded through the eyelets at the waistline. All sizes feature a generous overlap built in at the overlapping front, so there is some flexibility in sizing. For the best fit, if your actual bust measurement falls between two sizes, choose the smaller size.Finished Size: 32 (35 ½, 40, 44 ½, 47 ½, 52)" bust circumference when closed, with an 8–9" front overlap at the waist. Cardigan shown measures 32". Yarn: Classic Elite Yarns Soft Linen (35% wool, 35% linen, 30% baby alpaca; 137 yd [125 m]/1. oz [50 g]): #2248 blue grotto, 7 (8, 9, 10, 12, 13) balls. Needles: Size 5 (3.75 mm): 36" or longer circular (cir). Adjust needle size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge. Notions: Markers (m); stitch holders; tapestry needle; one ." snap; sewing needle and thread; about 2–3 yd of 5⁄8" ribbon. Gauge: 22 sts and 29 rows = 4" in St st. Originally Published: Jane Austen Knits Fall 2012
