Valley Yarns Vardar Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Vardar Boatneck Pullover Sweater

What Is Being Made

The Vardar is a casual boatneck pullover sweater designed by Julie Turjoman, ideal for cool-weather weekend activities and layering. This relaxed-fit sweater features a dramatic wrapped cable texture on the front panel that creates visual interest while maintaining a versatile, everyday aesthetic. Available in sizes XS through 5XL, the sweater is shown in Size S with finished bust measurements ranging from 33 inches to 64¼ inches, designed to fit with 4 to 6 inches of positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed silhouette.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Vardar is constructed using several key knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate-level crafters. The sweater is worked flat on circular needles rather than in the round, allowing for controlled shaping and pattern placement. The garment is assembled using the seamed construction method, with pieces knitted separately and then joined together. The sweater is worked bottom-up, beginning with the ribbed hem at the lower edge and progressing upward toward the neckline. This construction approach provides excellent fit control and allows knitters to try on the garment as it develops.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used throughout the Vardar is K4/P1 Rib, a textured ribbed stitch that creates vertical columns of knit and purl stitches. This rib stitch is worked at a gauge of 22 stitches and 30 rows over 4 inches when blocked using the larger needles. The signature design element is the wrapped cable pattern featured on the front of the sweater. This cable repeat measures 14 stitches wide and spans 2 inches in width, creating the dramatic texture that defines the garment's visual appeal. The ribbed hems and cuffs are worked on smaller needles to create a snug, finished edge that prevents rolling.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Vardar is designed to be knitted in Valley Yarns Westfield, a luxurious blend of 60% fine merino wool, 20% yak, and 20% silk. This fiber composition creates a sumptuous yarn that knits up quickly while providing warmth and softness ideal for cool-weather wear. The yarn is available in the Stone colorway shown in the pattern. Yarn requirements range from 10 balls for the smallest size to 19 balls for the largest size, with each ball containing 50 grams and 120 yards.

The pattern requires US size 6 (4 mm) circular needles in both 16"-24" and 32"-40" lengths for the main knitting, and US size 4 (3.50 mm) circular needles in 16" and 32"-40" lengths for working the ribbed hems and cuffs. Additional materials needed include stitch markers, locking stitch markers, a cable needle for manipulating the wrapped cable stitches, stitch holders or waste yarn for holding stitches, and a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as Intermediate, making it suitable for knitters with some experience. The combination of flat construction, cable work, and seaming techniques requires solid foundational skills, though the straightforward garment shaping and well-established stitch patterns make it approachable for knitters ready to move beyond basic projects.