Valley Yarns Fjord Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Fjord Knitted Tunic

What Is Being Made

The Fjord is a versatile knitted tunic designed by Julie Turjoman that functions as a standalone garment or layering piece over a tee shirt or blouse. This intermediate-level project features a sophisticated silhouette with split back and neck details that add elegant styling without overwhelming the design. The tunic is available in nine sizes ranging from XS to 5XL, with finished bust measurements from 33" to 65" and hip measurements from 36" to 68", designed to be worn with 2 to 4 inches of positive ease for comfortable fit.

Construction Technique

The Fjord is constructed using a seamed, worked-flat knitting method, meaning the garment pieces are knitted individually in rows rather than in the round. The tunic comprises two main pieces: a front and back panel. The split back hem begins as two separate pieces that are eventually joined together and worked as one piece up to the shoulders. This construction method allows for precise shaping and the creation of the garment's distinctive design features. Short-row shoulder shaping is incorporated to enhance fit and create a more tailored appearance.

Stitch Techniques and Details

The primary stitch structure is stockinette stitch, which provides a smooth, classic fabric base. Simple but effective stitch textures are strategically used to highlight the split back and neck details. A special 13-stitch centered vertical rib section is featured prominently in both the front and back panels. In the back, this rib section begins at the split hem, is eventually joined, and continues up the center back to the neckline. In the front, the 13-stitch rib section splits into two narrow sections at the base of the V-neck, where it forms the neckband and wraps around to the back neck for grafting. The neckband is worked in rows from the center front to create the front neck split detail that extends around the back neck. A-line shaping is incorporated throughout to ensure a comfortable fit and improve the garment's drape.

Yarn and Materials

The Fjord pattern calls for Valley Yarns Southwick, a premium yarn blend of 52% Pima cotton and 48% bamboo. This fiber combination provides both beautiful sheen and gorgeous drape, making it ideal for a tunic that layers well and moves elegantly on the body. Yarn requirements range from 7 balls for the smallest size (XS) to 14 balls for the largest size (5XL), with each ball weighing 50 grams and yielding 105 yards. The pattern specifies US size 7 (4.5 mm) needles in 16-inch and 24-inch circular lengths, or the size needed to achieve the correct gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch, blocked. Additional materials include a stitch holder or waste yarn, stitch markers, and a tapestry needle for seaming and finishing.