vanilla is a soaker designed to be very simple……..

it is knit in one piece, with

no seams nor grafting, and features a ribbed crotch for a versatile fit

available in five sizes – from newborn through x-large

and three yarn weights – 8ply, 10ply, 12ply

materials gauge
up to 100g WOOLganic Organic Merino (8ply/DK) 8ply: 22sts/10cm on 4.0mm needles
OR up to 150g 10ply/Aran or Worsted 10ply: 19sts/10cm on 5.0mm needles
OR up to 150g 12ply/Bulky 12ply: 16sts/10cm on 6.0mm needles
small length cotton yarn (waste yarn)
15mm button (newborn size only) abbreviations
(P)CO – (provisional) cast on
equipment st(s) – stitch(es)
4.0mm pair flat needles (8ply) K – knit
4.0mm 40cm circular needle (8ply) P – purl
3.00mm 30cm & 80cm circular needles (8ply) K2tog – a decrease
SSK – a decrease
5.0mm pair flat needles (10ply)
P2tog – a decrease
5.0mm 40cm circular needle (10ply) SSP – a decrease
4.0mm 30cm & 80cm circular needles (10ply) pm – place marker
6.0mm pair flat needles (12ply) sm – slip marker
6.0mm 40cm circular needle (12ply) BO – bind off
5.0mm 30cm & 80cm circular needles (12ply) See ‘notes’ for detailed information about Soaker construction,
2 stitch markers Pattern format, PCO, Yarn, Increases, Decreases, Short Rows,
Magic Loop, and Bind Off
darning needle (for sewing in ends)

A pattern by Kelly Brooker

Please respect yourself and designers everywhere by purchasing your own legal copy of this pattern.
© 2009 by Kelly Brooker all rights reserved
Please consider your environmental responsibility before printing this pattern
vanilla sizing and fit page two
vanilla comes in five sizes – newborn, small, medium, large and x-large
The following measurements are taken at rest (unstretched):

newborn small medium large x-large

Rise: 43cm Rise: 50cm Rise: 54cm Rise: 56cm Rise: 58cm
Waist: 30cm Waist: 35cm Waist: 40cm Waist: 45cm Waist: 50cm
Hips: 34cm Hips: 42cm Hips: 50cm Hips: 56cm Hips: 62cm
Crotch Width: 9cm Crotch Width: 11cm Crotch Width: 12cm Crotch Width: 13cm Crotch Width: 14cm
Leg Opening: 19cm Leg Opening: 25cm Leg Opening: 30cm Leg Opening: 35cm Leg Opening: 40cm

Total Yarn Required Total Yarn Required Total Yarn Required Total Yarn Required Total Yarn Required
(8ply): 55g (8ply): 70g (8ply): 85g (8ply): 100g (8ply): 120g
(40g for body + 15g for (50g for body + 20g for (60g for body + 25g for (70g for body + 30g for (80g for body + 40g for
waistband and leg cuffs) waistband and leg cuffs) waistband and leg cuffs) waistband and leg cuffs) waistband and leg cuffs)

No exact yarn figures currently available for 10 and 12ply yarn

vanilla notes page three
Please take the time to read these notes prior to casting on.
There is information within the notes pages that will greatly assist you in the knitting of this project ☺
Soaker Construction The Pattern
This soaker is knit in a non- This pattern has been written with All sizes are combined into the one please visit the fabulous
conventional manner, so by the newer knitter in mind. It walks pattern, and are distinguished by Techknitter’s site:
familiarising yourself with the you through each step very slowly, so different colours. http://techknitting.blogspot.com/20
process of construction it should be the more experienced knitter may The key is as follows: 07/10/cowyak-waste-yarn-method-
easier to comprehend. find it rather wordy. Please take the all sizes
of-provisional.html
Knitting starts on flat needles (with a time to read the entire pattern before newborn
PCO) in what will become the area starting to ensure you don’t miss small Three points I want to stress about
between the leg holes on front of the anything. Highlight things you feel medium the PCO….
soaker. Leg shaping is made, and the are of importance, and reference the large *for your waste yarn, use a cotton
ribbed crotch is knit. specified websites if some of the x-large yarn in the same weight as your
techniques used are unfamiliar. The pattern for: project yarn. This will ensure you
The pattern has been broken down 8ply (DK weight) can be found keep consistent tension on the
into 8 sections: on pages 5-8 stitches, and also the cotton won’t
Part A: Leg Hole Decreases felt or rub against the woollen sts.
10ply (worsted/aran weight) on *release the sts from the PCO
Part B: Ribbed Crotch pages 9-12
Part C: Leg Hole Increases slowly; one by one. It is a time
12ply (bulky weight) on pages consuming process, that requires a
Part D: Formation Round
Part E: Body 13-16 bit of concentration
Photo shows the ribbed crotch. PCO is at the bottom, Part F: Waistband The CO *double check you have the correct
live sts at the top
Part G: Leg Cuffs The CO for this soaker is a provisional number of stitches after you have
Once the crotch is complete the PCO Part H: Finishing CO. A PCO is one which holds sts released the PCO. There is a
is released and joined to the live sts It sounds like a lot of parts, but they safely so you can return to them at a tendency for a stitch at each end of
in a ‘round’. The body of the soaker is are all short and sweet. later stage and knit in the opposite the row to ‘disappear’ for less
knit in a circular fashion from here on The pattern has been written this direction. The PCO used in this experienced PCO’ers. By releasing
(you will find there are more sts at way as often it is easier to just focus pattern is the most easy to execute in the PCO very slowly, and observing
the back of the soaker than the front on one small part of a pattern rather my opinion, but not the quickest to sharply you should be able to avoid
– this is a sizing feature for than being inundated with release at the other end. this…however if you can’t, just
accommodating ‘ample’ cloth instructions all at once ☺ To see an excellent explanation of sneakily CO one extra st before
bottomed babes). The body ends this PCO (called the ‘Cowyak’), moving on with the ‘formation round’
with a ribbed waistband. I won’t tell ;)
vanilla notes continued….. page four
Please take the time to read these notes prior to casting on.
There is information within the notes pages that will greatly assist you in the knitting of this project ☺
Yarn Decreases Short Rows The BO
The yarn chosen for the 8ply project The decreases used in this pattern All sizes of vanilla feature short rows You need a super stretchy BO for
is WOOLganic Organic Merino. It is are directional decreases, which in the back of the soaker. This gives this project.
an 100% Australian grown, means when used they create extra rise, without adding bulk to the My recommendation is the ‘Sewn
Australasian processed wool. slanted stitches, which are visually front. Instructions are included Bind Off’, from Silver’s Sock
WOOLganic comes in vibrant, funky appealing. within the pattern on how to create Class:
colours, but best of all it is certified ‘no hole’ short rows. http://www.cometosilver.com/s
organic – so the perfect fibre to put K2tog: Insert your right needle ocks/2mlsocks_bindoff.htm
against your babe’s pure skin. through two stitches instead of one, Magic Loop
then knit as normal An easier alternative is to simply
I have suggested utilising a technique
M1 Increases SSK: Slip first stitch as if to knit, slip BO in 2x2 rib using the larger
called ‘Magic Loop’ for knitting the
second stitch as if to purl, then knit gauge circular
M1L and M1R are directional leg cuffs on to this soaker. Magic
the two together through the back needle……however, why not
increases, which means when used Loop is a great way to carry out
loops. challenge yourself and try a new
they create slanted stitches. small diameter circular knitting using
P2tog: Insert your right needles technique?
a long circular needle. If you have not
M1L: Using Left needle, from the through two stitches instead of one, attempted it before, I really
front, lift bar between stitch just knit then purl as normal recommend taking the time to
(on Right needle) and stitch waiting SSP: Slip first stitch as if to knit, slip learn…it is invaluable for a multitude
to be knit (on Left needle). Knit into second stitch as if to knit, then return of things. A great tutorial can be
the back of this stitch. slipped sts to left needle. p2tog found here:
M1R: Using Left needle, from the through the back loops (Insert right http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=
back, lift bar between stitch just knit needle up into back loops of the two BtBSmxGomPk
and stitch waiting to be knit. Knit this stitches and purl them together from
stitch normally. this position) The cuffs may also be knit on DPNs
(double pointed needles), or sizes
If you are unfamiliar with directional If you are unfamiliar with directional medium and large can be done with
M1’s, please visit this website for a decreases, please visit this website a 30cm 3mm circular needle
great video: for a great video:
http://www.knittinghelp.com/video http://www.knittinghelp.com/video
s/increases s/decreases
vanilla the pattern – 8ply page five
Please read ‘notes’ pages before Part C continued…..
Part B: Ribbed Crotch Part B continued…..
starting this project
newborn only You will still have 28 (32, 36, 38, 40) medium only
With waste yarn, and your flat Row 1: K1, M1L, K6, (P2, K2)x6, K4,
Row 1: K5, (P2, K2)x5, K3 sts
needles: M1R, K1
Row 2: P5 (K2, P2)x5, P3
CO 36 (42, 48, 54, 60) sts Row 2: P8, (P2, K2)x6, P6
Repeat Rows 1 & 2 15 more times
(32 crotch rows worked) Part C: Leg Hole Increases Row 3: K1, M1L, K to marker, sm,
Switch to project yarn (P2, K2)x6, sm, K to one st
Using the flat needles, you will now from end of row, M1R, K1
small only newborn only
begin knitting Part A Row 4: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x6,
Row 1: P5, (K2, P2)x6, P3 Row 1: K1, M1L, K4, pm, (P2, K2)x5,
Row 2: K5, (P2, K2)x6, K3 pm, K2, M1R, K1 sm, P to end of row
Row 3: P5, (K2, P2)x6, P3 Row 2: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x5,
Part A: Leg Hole Decreases Repeat Rows 3 & 4 12more times
Repeat Rows 2& 3 19 more times sm, P to end of row
(41 crotch rows worked) Row 3: K1, M1L, K to marker, sm,
Row 1: K all sts large only
(P2, K2)x5, sm, K to one st
Row 2: P all sts Row 1: K1, M1L, K5, pm, (P2, K2)x7,
medium only from end of row, M1R, K1
Row 3: K1, K2tog, K to last 3sts, SSK, pm, K3, M1R, K1
Row 1: K7, (P2, K2)x6, K5 Row 4: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x5,
K1 Row 2: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x7,
Row 2: P7, (K2, P2)x6, P5 sm, P to end of row
Row 4: P1, P2tog, P to last 3sts, SSP, sm, P to end of row
Repeat Rows 1 & 2 19 more times
P1 Row 3: K1, M1L, K to marker, sm,
(40 crotch rows worked) Repeat Rows 3 & 4 4more times
(P2, K2)x7, sm, K to one st
Repeat Rows 3 & 4: 1 (1, 2, 3, 4) more from end of row, M1R, K1
large only small only
times Row 4: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x7,
Row 1: K6, (P2, K2)x7, K4 Row 1: K1, M1L, K4, pm, (P2, K2)x6,
Row 2: P6, (K2, P2)x7, P4 pm, K2, M1R, K1 sm, P to end of row
small only
Repeat Rows 1 & 2 23 more times Row 2: P6, (P2, K2)x6, P4
Row 7: K1, K2tog, K to last 3sts, SSK, Repeat Rows 2 & 3 14more times
(48 crotch rows worked) Row 3: K1, M1L, K to marker, sm,
K1
(P2, K2)x6,sm, K to one st
newborn will end on Row 6 - 28sts x-large only from end of row, M1R, K1 x-large only
small will end on Row 7 - 32sts Row 1: K5, (P2, K2)x8, K3 Row 4: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x6, Row 1:K1, M1L, K4, pm, (P2, K2)x8,
medium will end on Row 8 - 36sts Row2: P5, (K2, P2)x8, K3 sm, P to end of row pm, K2, M1R, K1
large will end on Row 10 - 38sts Repeat Rows 1 & 2 26 more times Row 2: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x8,
x-large will end on Row 12 – 40sts (54 crotch rows worked) Repeat Rows 3 & 4 7more times sm, P to end of row
vanilla the pattern – 8ply continued….. page six

Part C continued….. Stop knitting. Part D continued….. Part E continued…..

You will now return to your PCO and
x-large continued….. release the sts one at a time and You will now have 76 (92, 112, 124, large – 52sts front, 72sts back
Row 3: K1, M1L, K to marker, sm, place them on to your empty flat 136 ) sts in a round on your circular x-large – 58sts, 78sts back
(P2, K2)x8, sm, K to one st needle. Following the instructions needle.
from end of row, M1R, K1 below for Part D, you will be joining Re stitch marker position – if you Round 2: sm, K to 1 stitch before
Row 4: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x8, the flat piece of work you have knit have followed the instructions marker A.
sm, P to end of row into circular knitting, with the ribbed precisely, when looking at the soaker Turn your work (literally turn it
area forming the crotch of the from the front (identifiable by the around; put the Left needle in your
Repeat Rows 2 & 3 16more times soaker. The ‘Formation Round’ shorter ribbed area), the stitch Right hand, and Right in your Left.
consists of knitting the stitches from marker should be on the right hand You are now looking at the purl side
After knitting Row 12 (18, 28, 32, 36), the flat needle (that you retrieved side of your work (this will become of your work, and the working yarn is
put aside your empty knitting needle from the PCO), onto the circular the Left hip). hanging from your Left needle) .
and replace it with your 4.0mm 40cm needle that already has We will call this ‘marker A’. Slip 1 stitch as if to purl, then purl
circular. You will now knit Row 13 (19, 29, 33, 37) on it back across the Row. Stop when
Row 13 (19, 29, 33, 37) from the there is just one stitch left before
remaining flat needle onto the Part D: Formation Round The body is started by placing a marker B.
circular needle second marker ( ‘marker B’) which Turn your work.
K35 (41, 47, 53, 59)sts from flat will be used for inserting Short Rows. Slip 1 stitch as if to purl, then knit
Rows 13 (19, 29, 33, 37): :K1, M1L, K needle onto the circular needle, slip back across Row. Stop when there
to 1 stitch from end, M1R, K1. last st from flat needle to opposite are two sts left before marker A.
Removing markers as you pass them. end of circular needle, then knit this Part E: Body Slip next st as if to purl. Using Left
slipped st together with the first st on needle, pick up stitch from Row
You will now have 42 (52, 66, 72,78 ) the circular needle (a single Round 1: sm, K 34 (40, 46, 52, 58)sts, below the last st on the Right needle.
sts decrease), then knit all the sts that place marker B , K all sts to end of Then, slip first st on Right needle
were already on the circular needle Round back to the Left needle.
to complete the knitting of this Knit the next stitch on the Left
round. When you get back to the The round has been divided by the needle (this is the st you have just
start of the new ‘round’ you have just markers as follows: slipped back), then knit the next 2sts
formed, K the first and last sts newborn – 34sts front, 42sts back together (the first of which is the one
together, then place a marker, small – 40sts front, 52sts back you picked up earlier)
indicating start of the round medium – 46sts front, 66sts back
vanilla the pattern – 8ply continued….. page seven

Part E continued….. Part E continued….. Part F continued….. Part F continued…..

This brings you back around to the newborn and small only BO using the Sewn BO method, or other sizes
start of Round 3. You will finish the You can remove marker B as you alternatively BO in (K2, P2) pattern Round 21: sm, K all sts to end of
Short Row on this Round. pass it on Round 10 using the 4.0mm circular needle. Round
Rounds 10-20: sm, K all sts to end of Rounds 22-37: sm, (K2, P2) repeat
Round 3: sm, K to marker B, sm, slip Round ALTERNATIVE NEWBORN to end of Round to form a 2x2 rib
next st as if to Knit. WAISTBAND waistband
Using Right needle, pick up stitch other sizes You may prefer to have a button-
from Row below the last st on the Rounds 10-13: sm, K all sts to end of down waistband if you plan to use BO using the Sewn BO method, or
Left needle. Slip picked up st back to Round, smB as you pass the soaker on a brand new babe alternatively BO in (K2, P2) pattern
the Left needle. Return slipped st Now a third Short Row: (umbilicus still attached). using the 4.0mm circular needle.
from Right needle back to Left Rounds 14-15: Follow directions for If this is the case, then replace
needle.K2tog through the back loops Rounds 2&3, to insert a third Short Rounds 21-34 with the following: ALTERNATIVE
(first st is the st you just slipped back, Row SMALL/MEDIUM/LARGE
second st is the one you picked up You can remove marker B as you Alt. Waist Rounds 21-31: sm, (K2, P2) WAISTBAND
earlier). pass it on Round 16 repeat to end of Round to form a 2x2 You may prefer to have a
K all sts to end of Round. Rounds 16-20: sm, K all sts to end of rib waistband drawstring waistband for extra
Round Alt. Waist Round 32: sm, (K2, P2)x4, security. If this is the case, then
Rounds 4-7: sm, K all sts to end of K2, YO, P2tog, (K2, P2)repeat to end replace Rounds 21-37 with the
Round, smB as you pass Change to 3mm needle of Round to form 2x2rib with one following:
(and contrast yarn if preferred) eyelet at the front centre of waist
Time for a second Short Row: Alt. Waist Rounds 33 & 34: sm, (K2, Alt. Waist Rounds 21-28: sm,
Part F: Waistband P2) repeat to end of Round to form a (K2,P2) repeat to end of Round to
Rounds 8 & 9: Follow directions for 2x2 rib waistband form a 2x2 rib waistband
Rounds 2 & 3, to insert a second newborn only Alt. Waist Round 29: sm, (K2, YO,
Short Row Round 21: sm, K all sts to end of BO using the Sewn BO method or P2tog) repeat to end of Round
Round alternatively BO in (K2, P2) pattern Alt. Waist Rounds 30-37: sm, (K2,
Rounds 22-34: sm, (K2, P2) repeat to using the 4.0mm circular needle. P2) repeat to end of Round to form
end of Round to form a 2x2 rib a 2x2 rib waistband
waistband
vanilla the pattern – 8ply continued….. page eight

Part F: Waistband Part G continued…..

BO using the Sewn BO method, or other sizes

alternatively BO in (K2, P2) pattern Rounds 1-15: sm, (K2, P2) repeat to
using the 4.0mm circular needle. end of Round to form a 2x2 rib cuff

Waist tie – plait three strands of yarn BO using the Sewn BO method or
together to create a waist tie, and alternatively BO in (K2, P2) pattern
thread through the eyelets created using the 4.0mm circular needle.
on Alt. Waist Round 29.
Repeat for second leg
Part G: Leg Cuffs
Part H: Finishing
To get the most out of the ribbed
crotch it is advantageous to add
Sew in all ends.
ribbed leg cuffs. This is done by
Wash in a lanolin-rich wool wash,
picking up stitches and working them
then lay flat and in shape to dry
in the round utilising ‘Magic Loop’.
newborn only
Using the 3.0mm 80cm circular, and
Sew on button to front of soaker,
starting at the top of the leg, pick-up
approx. 7cm down from the YO.
40 (52, 64, 76, 84)sts evenly spaced
Button down the soaker for Newborn
around the leg opening. Join for
wear
working in the round and pm.
Split work on the magic loop needle
so there are 20 (26, 32, 38, 42)sts on
each half.
newborn and small only
Rounds 1-8: sm, (K2, P2) repeat to
end of Round to form a 2x2 rib cuff
vanilla the pattern – 10ply page nine
Please read ‘notes’ pages before Part C continued…..
Part B: Ribbed Crotch Part B continued…..
starting this project
newborn only You will still have 24 (28, 36, 38, 40) medium only
With waste yarn, and your flat Row 1: K1, M1L, K6, (P2, K2)x6, K4,
Row 1: K5, (P2, K2)x4, K3 sts
needles: M1R, K1
Row 2: P5 (K2, P2)x4, P3
CO 32 (36, 42, 46, 52) sts Row 2: P8, (P2, K2)x6, P6
Repeat Rows 1 & 2 14 more times
(30 crotch rows worked) Part C: Leg Hole Increases Row 3: K1, M1L, K to marker, sm,
Switch to project yarn (P2, K2)x6, sm, K to one st
Using the flat needles, you will now small only from end of row, M1R, K1
newborn only
begin knitting Part A Row 1: K5, (P2, K2)x5, K3 Row 4: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x6,
Row 1: K1, M1L, K4, pm, (P2, K2)x4,
Row 2: P5, (K2, P2)x5, P3 pm, K2, M1R, K1 sm, P to end of row
Repeat Rows 1 & 2 16 more times Row 2: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x4,
Part A: Leg Hole Decreases (34 crotch rows worked) Repeat Rows 3 & 4 7more times
sm, P to end of row
Row 3: K1, M1L, K to marker, sm,
Row 1: K all sts medium only large only
(P2, K2)x4, sm, K to one st
Row 2: P all sts Row 1: P7, (K2, P2)x6, P5 Row 1: K1, M1L, K5, pm, (P2, K2)x7,
from end of row, M1R, K1
Row 3: K1, K2tog, K to last 3sts, SSK, Row 2:K7, (P2, K2)x6, K5 pm, K3, M1R, K1
Row 4: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x4,
K1 Row 3: P7, (K2, P2)x6, P5 Row 2: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x7,
sm, P to end of row
Row 4: P1, P2tog, P to last 3sts, SSP, Repeat Rows 2 & 3 18 more times sm, P to end of row
P1 (39 crotch rows worked) Row 3: K1, M1L, K to marker, sm,
Repeat Rows 3 & 4 2more times
large only (P2, K2)x7, sm, K to one st
Repeat Rows 3 & 4: 1 (1, 0, 1, 2) more from end of row, M1R, K1
Row 1: K6, (P2, K2)x7, K4 small only
times Row 4: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x6,
Row 2: P6, (K2, P2)x7, P4 Row 1: K1, M1L, K4, pm, (P2, K2)x6,
medium only sm, P to end of row
Repeat Rows 1 & 2 20 more times pm, K2, M1R, K1
Row 5: repeat Row 3
(42 crotch rows worked) Row 2: P6, (P2, K2)x6, P4
Row 3: K1, M1L, K to marker, sm, Repeat Rows 3 & 4 10more times
newborn will end on Row 6 - 24sts
x-large only (P2, K2)x6,sm, K to one st
small will end on Row 6 - 28sts x-large only
Row1: K5, (P2, K2)x8, K3 from end of row, M1R, K1
medium will end on Row 5 - 36sts Row 1:K1, M1L, K4, pm, (P2, K2)x8,
Row 2: P5, (K2, P2)x8, P3 Row 4: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x6,
large will end on Row 6 - 38sts pm, K2, M1R, K1
Repeat Rows 1 & 2 21 more times sm, P to end of row
x-large will end on Row 8 – 40sts Row 2: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x8,
(44 crotch rows worked)
Repeat Rows 3 & 4 6more times sm, P to end of row
vanilla the pattern – 10ply continued….. page ten

Part C continued….. Stop knitting. Part D continued….. Part E continued…..

You will now return to your PCO and
x-large continued….. release the sts one at a time and You will now have 64 (80, 96, 108, large – 44sts front, 64sts back
Row 3: K1, M1L, K to marker, sm, place them on to your empty flat 120 ) sts in a round on your circular x-large – 50sts, 70sts back
(P2, K2)x8, sm, K to one st needle. Following the instructions needle.
from end of row, M1R, K1 below for Part D, you will be joining Round 2: sm, K to 1 stitch before
Row 4: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x6, the flat piece of work you have knit Re stitch marker position – if you marker A.
sm, P to end of row into circular knitting, with the ribbed have followed the instructions Turn your work (literally turn it
area forming the crotch of the precisely, when looking at the soaker around; put the Left needle in your
Repeat Rows 3 & 4 12more times soaker. The ‘Formation Round’ from the front (identifiable by the Right hand, and Right in your Left.
consists of knitting the stitches from shorter ribbed area), the stitch You are now looking at the purl side
After knitting Row 8 (16, 22, 24, 28), the flat needle (that you retrieved marker should be on the right hand of your work, and the working yarn is
put aside your empty knitting needle from the PCO), onto the circular side of your work (this will become hanging from your Left needle) .
and replace it with your 5.0mm 40cm needle that already has the Left hip). Slip 1 stitch as if to purl, then purl
circular. You will now knit Row 9 (17, 23, 25, 29) on it We will call this ‘marker A’. back across the Row. Stop when
Row 9 (17, 23, 25, 29) from the there is just one stitch left before
remaining flat needle onto the Part D: Formation Round The body is started by placing a marker B.
circular needle second marker ( ‘marker B’) which Turn your work.
K31 (35, 41, 45, 51)sts from flat will be used for inserting Short Rows. Slip 1 stitch as if to purl, then knit
Rows 9 (17, 23, 25, 29): :K1, M1L, K needle onto the circular needle, slip back across Row. Stop when there
to 1 stitch from end, M1R, K1. last st from flat needle to opposite are two sts left before marker A.
Removing markers as you pass them. end of circular needle, then knit this Part E: Body Slip next st as if to purl. Using Left
slipped st together with the first st on needle, pick up stitch from Row
You will now have 34 (46, 56, 64,70 ) the circular needle (a single Round 1: sm, K 30 (34, 40, 44, 50)sts, below the last st on the Right needle.
sts decrease), then knit all the sts that place marker B , K all sts to end of Then, slip first st on Right needle
were already on the circular needle Round back to the Left needle.
to complete the knitting of this Knit the next stitch on the Left
round. When you get back to the The round has been divided by the needle (this is the st you have just
start of the new ‘round’ you have just markers as follows: slipped back), then knit the next 2sts
formed, K the first and last sts newborn – 30sts front, 34sts back together (the first of which is the one
together, then place a marker, small – 34sts front, 46sts back you picked up earlier)
indicating start of the round medium – 40sts front, 56sts back
vanilla the pattern – 10ply continued….. page eleven

Part E continued….. Part E continued….. Part F continued….. Part F continued…..

This brings you back around to the newborn and small only BO using the Sewn BO method, or other sizes
start of Round 3. You will finish the You can remove marker B as you alternatively BO in (K2, P2) pattern Round 18: sm, K all sts to end of
Short Row on this Round. pass it on Round 10 using the 5.0mm circular needle. Round
Rounds 10-17: sm, K all sts to end of Rounds 19-31: sm, (K2, P2) repeat
Round 3: sm, K to marker B, sm, slip Round ALTERNATIVE NEWBORN to end of Round to form a 2x2 rib
next st as if to Knit. WAISTBAND waistband
Using Right needle, pick up stitch other sizes You may prefer to have a button-
from Row below the last st on the Rounds 10-13: sm, K all sts to end of down waistband if you plan to use BO using the Sewn BO method, or
Left needle. Slip picked up st back to Round, smB as you pass the soaker on a brand new babe alternatively BO in (K2, P2) pattern
the Left needle. Return slipped st Now a third Short Row: (umbilicus still attached). using the 5.0mm circular needle.
from Right needle back to Left Rounds 14-15: Follow directions for If this is the case, then replace
needle.K2tog through the back loops Rounds 2&3, to insert a third Short Rounds 19-29 with the following: ALTERNATIVE
(first st is the st you just slipped back, Row SMALL/MEDIUM/LARGE
second st is the one you picked up You can remove marker B as you Alt. Waist Rounds 19-26: sm, (K2, WAISTBAND
earlier). pass it on Round 16 P2) repeat to end of Round to form a You may prefer to have a
K all sts to end of Round. Rounds 16 & 17: sm, K all sts to end 2x2 rib waistband drawstring waistband for extra
of Round Alt. Waist Round 27: sm, (K2, P2)x4, security. If this is the case, then
Rounds 4-7: sm, K all sts to end of K2, YO, P2tog, (K2, P2)repeat to end replace Rounds 19-31 with the
Round, smB as you pass Change to 4mm needle of Round to form 2x2rib with one following:
(and contrast yarn if preferred) eyelet at the front centre of waist
Time for a second Short Row: Alt. Waist Rounds 28 & 29: sm, (K2, Alt. Waist Rounds 19-24: sm,
Part F: Waistband P2) repeat to end of Round to form a (K2,P2) repeat to end of Round to
Rounds 8 & 9: Follow directions for 2x2 rib waistband form a 2x2 rib waistband
Rounds 2 & 3, to insert a second newborn only Alt. Waist Round 25: sm, (K2, YO,
Short Row Round 18: sm, K all sts to end of BO using the Sewn BO method or P2tog) repeat to end of Round
Round alternatively BO in (K2, P2) pattern Alt. Waist Rounds 26-31: sm, (K2,
Rounds 19-29: sm, (K2, P2) repeat to using the 5.0mm circular needle. P2) repeat to end of Round to form
end of Round to form a 2x2 rib a 2x2 rib waistband
waistband
vanilla the pattern – 10ply continued….. page twelve

Part F: Waistband Part G continued…..

BO using the Sewn BO method, or other sizes

alternatively BO in (K2, P2) pattern Rounds 1-13: sm, (K2, P2) repeat to
using the 5.0mm circular needle. end of Round to form a 2x2 rib cuff

Waist tie – plait three strands of yarn BO using the Sewn BO method or
together to create a waist tie, and alternatively BO in (K2, P2) pattern
thread through the eyelets created using the 5.0mm circular needle.
on Alt. Waist Round 25.
Repeat for second leg
Part G: Leg Cuffs
Part H: Finishing
To get the most out of the ribbed
crotch it is advantageous to add
Sew in all ends.
ribbed leg cuffs. This is done by
Wash in a lanolin-rich wool wash,
picking up stitches and working them
then lay flat and in shape to dry
in the round utilising ‘Magic Loop’.
newborn only
Using the 4.0mm 80cm circular, and
Sew on button to front of soaker,
starting at the top of the leg, pick-up
approx. 7cm down from the YO.
36 (44, 56, 68, 80)sts evenly spaced
Button down the soaker for Newborn
around the leg opening. Join for
wear
working in the round and pm.
Split work on the magic loop needle
so there are 18 (22, 28, 34, 40)sts on
each half.
newborn and small only
Rounds 1-7: sm, (K2, P2) repeat to
end of Round to form a 2x2 rib cuff
vanilla the pattern – 12ply page thirteen
Please read ‘notes’ pages before Part C continued…..
Part B: Ribbed Crotch Part B continued…..
starting this project
newborn only You will still have 20 (24, 26, 28, 30) medium only
With waste yarn, and your flat Row 1: K1, M1L, K5, (P2, K2)x4, K3,
Row 1: P5, (K2, P2)x3, P3 sts
needles: M1R, K1
Row 2: K5, (P2, K2)x3, K3
CO 26 (30, 34, 40, 44) sts Row 2: P7, (P2, K2)x4, P5
Row 3: P5, (K2, P2)x3, P3
Repeat Rows 2 & 3 10 more times Part C: Leg Hole Increases Row 3: K1, M1L, K to marker, sm,
Switch to project yarn (P2, K2)x4, sm, K to one st
(23 crotch rows worked)
Using the flat needles, you will now from end of row, M1R, K1
newborn only
begin knitting Part A small only Row 4: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x4,
Row 1: K1, M1L, K4, pm, (P2, K2)x3,
Row 1: P5, (K2, P2)x4, P3 sm, P to end of row
pm, K2, M1R, K1
Row 2: K5, (P2, K2)x4, K3
Row 2: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x3,
Part A: Leg Hole Decreases Row 3: P5, (K2, P2)x4, P3 Repeat Rows 3 & 4 8more times
sm, P to end of row
Repeat Rows 2 & 3 11 more times
Row 3: K1, M1L, K to marker, sm,
Row 1: K all sts (25 crotch rows worked) large only
(P2, K2)x3, sm, K to one st
Row 2: P all sts Row 1: K1, M1L, K4, pm, (P2, K2)x5,
medium only from end of row, M1R, K1
Row 3: K1, K2tog, K to last 3sts, SSK, pm, K2, M1R, K1
Row 1:K6, (P2, K2)x4, K4 Row 4: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x3,
K1 Row 2: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x5,
Row 2: P6, (K2, P2)x4, P4 sm, P to end of row
Row 4: P1, P2tog, P to last 3sts, SSP, sm, P to end of row
Repeat Rows 1 & 2 13 more times
P1 Row 3: K1, M1L, K to marker, sm,
(28 crotch rows worked) Repeat Rows 3 & 4 3more times
(P2, K2)x5, sm, K to one st
Repeat Rows 3 & 4: 0 (0, 1, 2, 2) more large only from end of row, M1R, K1
small only
times Row 1: K5, (P2, K2)x5, K3 Row 4: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x5,
Row 1: K1, M1L, K4, pm, (P2, K2)x4,
newborn and small only Row 2: P5, (K2, P2)x5, P3 sm, P to end of row
pm, K2, M1R, K1
Row 5: repeat Row 3 Repeat Rows 1 & 2 15 more times
Row 2: P6, (P2, K2)x4, P4
x-large only (32 crotch rows worked) Repeat Rows 3 & 4 10more times
Row 3: K1, M1L, K to marker, sm,
Row 9: repeat Row 3
x-large only (P2, K2)x4,sm, K to one st
newborn will end on Row 5 - 20sts Row 1: P6, (K2, P2)x5, P4 from end of row, M1R, K1 x-large only
small will end on Row 5 - 24sts Row2: K6, (P2, K2)x5, K4 Row 4: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x4, Row 1:K1, M1L, K5, pm, (P2, K2)x5,
medium will end on Row 6 - 26sts Row 3: P6, (K2, P2)x5, P4 sm, P to end of row pm, K3, M1R, K1
large will end on Row 8 - 28sts Repeat Rows 2 & 3 17 more times Row 2: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x5,
x-large will end on Row 9 – 30sts (37 crotch rows worked) Repeat Rows 3 & 4 5more times sm, P to end of row
vanilla the pattern – 12ply continued….. page fourteen

Part C continued….. Stop knitting. Part D continued….. Part E continued…..

You will now return to your PCO and
x-large continued….. release the sts one at a time and You will now have 56 (68, 80, 92, large – 38sts front, 54sts back
Row 3: K1, M1L, K to marker, sm, place them on to your empty flat 100) sts in a round on your circular x-large – 42sts, 58sts back
(P2, K2)x5, sm, K to one st needle. Following the instructions needle.
from end of row, M1R, K1 below for Part D, you will be joining Round 2: sm, K to 1 stitch before
Row 4: P to marker, sm, (P2, K2)x5, the flat piece of work you have knit Re stitch marker position – if you marker A.
sm, P to end of row into circular knitting, with the ribbed have followed the instructions Turn your work (literally turn it
area forming the crotch of the precisely, when looking at the soaker around; put the Left needle in your
Repeat Rows 3 & 4 11more times soaker. The ‘Formation Round’ from the front (identifiable by the Right hand, and Right in your Left.
consists of knitting the stitches from shorter ribbed area), the stitch You are now looking at the purl side
After knitting Row 10 (14, 20, 24, 26), the flat needle (that you retrieved marker should be on the right hand of your work, and the working yarn is
put aside your empty knitting needle from the PCO), onto the circular side of your work (this will become hanging from your Left needle) .
and replace it with your 6.0mm 40cm needle that already has the Left hip). Slip 1 stitch as if to purl, then purl
circular. You will now knit Row 11 Row 11 (15, 21, 25, 27) on it We will call this ‘marker A’. back across the Row. Stop when
(15, 21, 25, 27) from the remaining there is just one stitch left before
flat needle onto the circular needle Part D: Formation Round The body is started by placing a marker B.
second marker ( ‘marker B’) which Turn your work.
K25 (29, 33, 39, 43)sts from flat will be used for inserting Short Rows. Slip 1 stitch as if to purl, then knit
Rows 11 (15, 21, 25, 27): :K1, M1L, K needle onto the circular needle, slip back across Row. Stop when there
to 1 stitch from end, M1R, K1. last st from flat needle to opposite are two sts left before marker A.
Removing markers as you pass them. end of circular needle, then knit this Part E: Body Slip next st as if to purl. Using Left
slipped st together with the first st on needle, pick up stitch from Row
You will now have 32 (40, 48, 54,58 ) the circular needle (a single Round 1: sm, K 24 (28, 32, 38, 42)sts, below the last st on the Right needle.
sts decrease), then knit all the sts that place marker B , K all sts to end of Then, slip first st on Right needle
were already on the circular needle Round back to the Left needle.
to complete the knitting of this Knit the next stitch on the Left
round. When you get back to the The round has been divided by the needle (this is the st you have just
start of the new ‘round’ you have just markers as follows: slipped back), then knit the next 2sts
formed, K the first and last sts newborn – 24sts front, 32sts back together (the first of which is the one
together, then place a marker, small – 28sts front, 40sts back you picked up earlier)
indicating start of the round medium – 32sts front, 48sts back
vanilla the pattern – 12ply continued….. page fifteen

Part E continued….. Part E continued….. Part F continued….. Part F continued…..

This brings you back around to the newborn and small only BO using the Sewn BO method, or other sizes
start of Round 3. You will finish the You can remove marker B as you alternatively BO in (K2, P2) pattern Round 16: sm, K all sts to end of
Short Row on this Round. pass it on Round 10 using the 6.0mm circular needle. Round
Rounds 10-15: sm, K all sts to end of Rounds 17-27: sm, (K2, P2) repeat
Round 3: sm, K to marker B, sm, slip Round ALTERNATIVE NEWBORN to end of Round to form a 2x2 rib
next st as if to Knit. WAISTBAND waistband
Using Right needle, pick up stitch other sizes You may prefer to have a button-
from Row below the last st on the Rounds 10-13: sm, K all sts to end of down waistband if you plan to use BO using the Sewn BO method, or
Left needle. Slip picked up st back to Round, smB as you pass the soaker on a brand new babe alternatively BO in (K2, P2) pattern
the Left needle. Return slipped st Now a third Short Row: (umbilicus still attached). using the 6.0mm circular needle.
from Right needle back to Left Rounds 14-15: Follow directions for If this is the case, then replace
needle.K2tog through the back loops Rounds 2&3, to insert a third Short Rounds 17-25 with the following: ALTERNATIVE
(first st is the st you just slipped back, Row SMALL/MEDIUM/LARGE
second st is the one you picked up You can remove marker B as you Alt. Waist Rounds 17-22: sm, (K2, P2) WAISTBAND
earlier). pass it on Round 16 repeat to end of Round to form a 2x2 You may prefer to have a
K all sts to end of Round. rib waistband drawstring waistband for extra
Change to 5mm needle Alt. Waist Round 23: sm, (K2, P2)x4, security. If this is the case, then
Rounds 4-7: sm, K all sts to end of (and contrast yarn if preferred) K2, P2tog, YO, (K2, P2)repeat to end replace Rounds 17-27 with the
Round, smB as you pass of Round to form 2x2rib with one following:
eyelet at the front centre of waist
Time for a second Short Row: Part F: Waistband Alt. Waist Rounds 24 & 25: sm, (K2, Alt. Waist Rounds 17-21: sm,
P2) repeat to end of Round to form a (K2,P2) repeat to end of Round to
Rounds 8 & 9: Follow directions for newborn only 2x2 rib waistband form a 2x2 rib waistband
Rounds 2 & 3, to insert a second Round 16: sm, K all sts to end of Alt. Waist Round 22: sm, (K2, YO,
Short Row Round BO using the Sewn BO method or P2tog) repeat to end of Round
Rounds 17-25: sm, (K2, P2) repeat to alternatively BO in (K2, P2) pattern Alt. Waist Rounds 23-27: sm, (K2,
end of Round to form a 2x2 rib using the 5.0mm circular needle. P2) repeat to end of Round to form
waistband a 2x2 rib waistband
vanilla the pattern – 12ply continued….. page sixteen

Part F: Waistband Part G continued…..

BO using the Sewn BO method, or other sizes

alternatively BO in (K2, P2) pattern Rounds 1-11: sm, (K2, P2) repeat to
using the 6.0mm circular needle. end of Round to form a 2x2 rib cuff

Waist tie – plait three strands of yarn BO using the Sewn BO method or
together to create a waist tie, and alternatively BO in (K2, P2) pattern
thread through the eyelets created using the 6.0mm circular needle.
on Alt. Waist Round 22.
Repeat for second leg
Part G: Leg Cuffs
Part H: Finishing
To get the most out of the ribbed
crotch it is advantageous to add
Sew in all ends.
ribbed leg cuffs. This is done by
Wash in a lanolin-rich wool wash,
picking up stitches and working them
then lay flat and in shape to dry
in the round utilising ‘Magic Loop’.
newborn only
Using the 4.0mm 80cm circular, and
Sew on button to front of soaker,
starting at the top of the leg, pick-up
approx. 7cm down from the YO.
32 (40, 48, 56, 64)sts evenly spaced
Button down the soaker for Newborn
around the leg opening. Join for
wear
working in the round and pm.
Split work on the magic loop needle
so there are 16 (20, 24, 38, 32)sts on
each half.
newborn and small only
Rounds 1-6: sm, (K2, P2) repeat to
end of Round to form a 2x2 rib cuff
vanilla additional notes page seventeen
Converting other soaker Copyright
patterns to seamless and one: Find your PCO number. This is This pattern and all it’s content
graft-free the number of stitches at the front of remains the intellectual property of
the soaker immediately above the leg Kelly Brooker.
There are 3 basic construction holes. It will be half (or less than half)
methods for soakers – you can either of the original pattern CO number Please respect yourself and pattern
*knit a great big triangle on flats, two: Leg hole decreases. Is there any designers everywhere by only trading
and seam the apex to the lower sides shaping at the front of the soaker in legal copies.
to create a low-rise, yet wide soaker between the leg openings? If so, The purchase of this pattern does not
*knit a (shaped) rectangle on flats, translate that shaping allow you to provide friends with
then seam half way down the sides three: Crotch. There may be a some copies, nor does it allow you to sell
to create a nice workhorse soaker rows of straight knitting to add the pattern itself, or items crafted
*knit in the round from the length to the crotch. Count the using this pattern.
waistband down to the legs, then number of rows If you wish to sell items crafted using
switch to knitting flat and seam or four: Leg Hole increases. The crotch vanilla, please contact the designer –
graft the crotch flap to the body. is narrower than the rear of the cottage licenses are available for a
soaker. All soaker patterns will small fee.
For those that are familiar with the increase out here, find the rate of If you wish to sell items crafted using
construction of soakers, and increase and number of rows vanilla to raise money for legitimate
confident enough to have a play, it is five: Formation round. Release your charitable purposes, please contact
easy to convert the third type of PCO and join it on a circular needle the designer..
soaker
Photo (knit
shows the ribbedin the PCO
crotch. round) tobottom,
is at the a with the live stitches from the crotch
live sts at the top six: Body of soaker. Count the “Each small act of kindness reverberates
seamless, graft-free version. across great distances and spans of time,
number of rows in the body of the affecting lives unknown to the one whose
To do this you need to construct the soaker (from top of leg opening to generous spirit was the source of the good
soaker in the same way vanilla is waistband. You may need to insert echo, because kindness is passed on and
constructed. short rows in the back for height, grows each time it is passed, until simple
and/or decreases for shaping….just courtesy becomes an act of selfless
Using the following list will help you courage years later and far away. “
pull the information from the pattern follow your pattern. -Dean Koontz, From The Corner of His Eye
you need: seven: All the finishing. Waistband,
leg cuffs etc Be the kindness – please respect this
copyright, and positive reverberations will
radiate out from you ☺
vanilla additional notes continued….. page eighteen
Love Unlimited Cottage License This pattern was conceptualised late I’m also very greatful for the mums
one night after yet another and babes who have provided me
disastrous attempt at grafting on a with fit information and
Love Unlimited is a cottage industry license offered to those that wish to knit soaker. photographs.
vanilla for sale. The license has relatively low restrictions, and is offered for a Recent experience with PCO’s in
small fee. other projects provided a lightbulb My two treasures, Miss A and
moment…..why not create a soaker Master L also require thanking - for
By purchasing a Love Unlimited license for vanilla, you are entitled to sell as the same way????? repeatedly put up with ‘just a quick
many items crafted from the pattern as you wish, with no additional fees. March 2008 saw the first version of try on for mummy’. And the husband
the pattern appear. It was only in creature who hasn’t grumbled (too
I as the designer, do not need to know where you are selling your finished newborn size, but the pattern loudly) at the ‘creative ’mess’ I need
product, nor whom you are selling them to or how much you are selling them concept was received well, and test around me, and all the time at the
for. (Of course sharing your successes is always welcomed – I love to hear knit by a bunch of mum’s of cloth computer in order to get this pattern
positive stories from people)
nappy wearing babes – The Nappy out ☺
I do ask that you sell them for a price respectful of knitters and their talent Network forum in NZ.
everywhere; a price that values the time, effort and kindness you have put into After information was gleaned from
the item. Arohanui to you all
the first test knitting, the soaker was
put on hold while family life needed xx
You do not need to reference the pattern as the vanilla soaker, however you
may not refer to the pattern as ‘your own’. I also expect that should someone
priority. K
December 2008 rolled around, and
request a copy of the pattern to knit their own that you direct them to Ravelry this pattern started the process of
to purchase a legal copy. coming to life. Thanks to Ravelry and
You
Photomay
showsnot sell crotch.
the ribbed kits ofPCO yarn that
is at the include the pattern, except with written
bottom,
another brilliant group of more
live sts at the top
permission by the designer. mum’s of cloth nappy wearing babes
You may not transfer the license to anyone else, except with written (Oz MCN Knitters), the revised
permission by the designer. pattern – complete with small,
You may not sell the pattern nor distribute it amongst friends. medium and large and x-large sizes
was born.
In purchasing of the Love Unlimited license you are agreeing to all conditions I am so very thankful for everyone
as outlined above. involved who has either test knit,
proof read, or just listened to me
Interested in a license? conceptualise!
Please make contact through Ravelry – username ‘gurnard’