I was so excited to wear my new sweater to work today. An Empire Waist (also called Empress Waist) is a flattering style for every figure!

This pattern is from Knit Tricks by Rebecca Wat. To knit the pattern (size L for me), I used 4 skeins of Deborah Norville Serenity Chunky Weight yarn (Almond Lot S1615). I also used size 11 needles as the pattern required. (The recommended yarn was Lion Brand Moonlight Mohair, which would have turned out a very lovely sweater, but I wanted to use yarn in my stash.)

Essentially, this is two rectangles with an eyelet middle for the ribbon. I used satin ribbon, but velvet ribbon would have been pretty too. The sides are seamed just a few inches above the lace section and the shoulders are seamed as well (about 4 inches). I adjusted the pattern to fit “the girls,” adding a few extra inches of knitting to the top of the rectangle.

I recommend you get this book. I found a copy at Half Price Books for $5.98. That price is a deal! The book has many easy and attractive patterns which you can knit quickly.