Creative Fibre 2027 National Challenge
Sampler Vest
This year, the Creative Fibre council has developed a challenge for the very many knitters in our Creative Fibre family. While the pattern is knitted, the general principles also apply to crocheters, regular and Tunisian. Any weavers or felters can create their own cloth, and then assemble according to the schematic (or similar). It goes without saying that the challenge will appeal to the many spinners who, for example, could create different yarns for their sampler stripes.
The knit vest is currently on trend and a great way to showcase yarns, stitches and design. The garment is somewhere between cardigan and waistcoat, and has no sleeves. It is a versatile piece that you can wear on its own, or over another layer to add warmth. The term “vest” can be interpreted quite broadly, but for the sake of conformity across all skill sets and mediums, the challenge refers to the standard style sweater vest, also referred to as a slip-over.
Inspired by the classic weaving gamp, the idea of the sampler vest is to use multiple stitches (or structures) to create the garment. We are supplying a knitting pattern for all to use, although you can use any pattern you like — or create your own. Our pattern is knit bottom up, but you can work top down, in the round or whatever you prefer. Use a variety of different stitches — the front and back can be totally different or the same — create a selection of cables, or use straight knit-purl. If weaving or felting, use different patterns and structures, then sew the shoulder and sides together. Experiment with different dye techniques for your design.
THE CHALLENGE AT A GLANCE: Create an on-trend sampler vest, using either knitting, crochet, weaving, felting, or a combination, that showcases four or more different design elements. Design elements can be, but are not limited to, knit or crochet stitches, weaving drafts or structures, felting techniques, types of hand spun yarn.
VEST DEFINITION:
- The vest should be a standard style sweater vest, also referred to as a slip-over
- It can have a button front (cardigan style)
- Any neckline (round, V, turtleneck)
- Tabards or any open-side designs are not allowed
- Refer to the schematic on this page for basic shaping
THE PATTERN: You can use any pattern you like, commercial or your own design. A knitting pattern has been designed by Lorraine Major to get you started. Click to download the pattern with schematic.
CHALLENGE TIMELINE: The timeline is still being finalised; it is currently envisioned that the entry deadline will be around the end of February 2027, with completed vests to arrive at specified locations by the end of March 2027.
DISPLAY OF ENTRIES: The details are still to be confirmed; we plan to display a selection of the vests at a national exhibition in Invercargill, followed by area or group exhibitions displaying all vests received for that individual area or group.
WHO CAN ENTER: Entrants must be Creative Fibre members. Entry is free, but entrants will need to pay postage to send and receive back their vest.
This challenge is open to all Creative Fibre members, from beginners to advanced practitioners. We especially want to encourage beginners to enter the challenge, giving them the opportunity to gain experience in entering for a national event. You can knit, crochet, felt or weave for the challenge as long as the finished item resembles the schematic. You can use any pattern you like, but we are supplying a pattern to get you started.
Examples of a knit vest: maxtedclothing.com
KEY CONTACTS FOR CHALLENGE QUERIES:
Vicki Klemm president@creativefibre.org.nz or PK Maracin vicepresident@creativefibre.org.nz
PATTERN QUERIES: Contact Lorraine Major