Rika Jumper Knitting Pattern

Rika Jumper in Berroco Topaz

What Is Being Made

The Rika Jumper is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan sweater designed by Amy Christoffers. This garment is available in nine sizes, ranging from 40 inches to 70 inches in finished bust measurement, with corresponding length adjustments. The jumper features a classic button-front cardigan construction with a structured fit and approximately 4–6 inches of positive ease recommended for comfortable wear.

Techniques Used

This knitting project employs fundamental sweater construction techniques suitable for intermediate knitters. The garment begins with a ribbed waistband worked on smaller needles, which provides elasticity and structure at the lower edge. The main body is then worked in stockinette stitch on larger needles, a smooth, classic fabric that showcases the yarn's characteristics. The pattern involves working with two yarn strands held together throughout the entire project, which creates a cohesive fabric weight and appearance. The design includes button bands and likely shaping at the armholes and neckline, though the provided excerpt focuses on the foundational back panel construction.

Stitches Used

The Rika Jumper primarily utilizes two essential knitting stitches:

• Ribbing (K1, P1): Used for the initial 3-inch cuff at the lower edge, alternating knit and purl stitches to create vertical columns that provide stretch and recovery
• Stockinette Stitch (St st): The main fabric stitch worked in rows, creating a smooth, flat surface with characteristic V-shaped columns on the right side

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Rika Jumper is designed to be worked in Berroco brand yarns, with two distinct yarns held together throughout the entire project. Berroco Topaz forms the primary yarn component, with yardage requirements ranging from 4 to 8 balls depending on size (each ball weighs 100 grams). Berroco Aerial is the secondary yarn, held alongside Topaz, requiring 4 to 6 balls per project (each ball weighs 25 grams). The color shown in the pattern photograph features Topaz in shade #1212 Classical paired with Aerial in shade #3442 Ocean, creating a blended, textured appearance.

Knitting needles required include U.S. size 6 (4 mm) needles for the ribbed sections and a U.S. size 8 (5 mm) needles for the main stockinette fabric. A 16-inch circular needle in size 6 (4 mm) is needed for working the neckline and button bands. The pattern calls for twelve 7/8-inch buttons for the front closure, along with standard notions including stitch holders, stitch markers, and waste yarn for holding stitches during construction.

Gauge and Finished Measurements

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for this project. The pattern specifies a gauge of 17 stitches and 22 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch, measured after blocking with both Topaz and Aerial held together on the larger needles. The finished bust measurements span from 40 inches (smallest size) to 70 inches (largest size), with corresponding length measurements ranging from 23 inches to 25¾ inches, providing options for various body types and style preferences.