Sizing issues with the BTS vest

After haunting this KAL for a while, I finally have the book and have been added. Yay me. LOL  I'm currently working on the Back To School Vest, and I have some questions.  First, how much ease is this supposed to have?  I'm figuring on 2" of ease, and to get that on the top and bottom I have to use two different sizes.  The bottom is the 44" size and the top is the 35 1/2" size.  I guess I have big hips or spare tire. *blushes*  I had this almost done in the 35 1/2" size and the ribbing was waaaay too tight. 

Thanks for your help!  All of you have such beautiful FO's.  I actually bought the book after I found this KAL, because of your amazing FO's. :)

Comments

[Pigwotflies]

I don't know. I made the BTS vest with no ease. Or at least I think I did, I haven't actually measured the finished piece. I reckoned with the ribbed lower half and bust darts, it ought to be very close-fitting. Don't worry about making different sizes on top and bottom halves, if that's what you need, but do think about how you want it fit. Ribbing tends to pull in, so it's likely to be body-hugging on the bottom. I think it would look odd with too much ease, but that's just my opinion and how I like to wear my tops. Think about what suits you. If you've got a similar cest you like, measure that and see how big it is.

[Bethany B]

I did make another shirt using the same yarn and the same gauge, and I loooove the fit at 2" of ease. I guess I'm hoping that the looser ribbing won't draw attention to my tummy. I've only done about 5" on the current version, so maybe I should start again and make it with 1" or zero ease.

On average, how much ease has everyone incorporated into their Fitted Knits?

[Bethany]

Sorry I've been MIA. I'm in the middle of moving. Anyway, I finally figured out what the problem with my vest is, after finishing all but the edge again. Grrr. Anyway, the yarn I'm using is too floppy, so the ribbing doesn't stand away from my body, it just clings. After I get moved in I'm going to get some stiffer yarn - possibly Paton's Wool - and try it one more time. :)