Valley Yarns Bedford Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Bedford Cardigan Coat

What Is Being Made

The Bedford is an intermediate-level cardigan coat designed by Julie Turjoman for Valley Yarns. This garment is a versatile layering piece ideal for transitional weather—those fall days when a down jacket feels too heavy and a windbreaker too light. The cardigan features a high collar, flattering A-line shaping that skims the body, and practical patch pockets. The finished length hits at mid-thigh, and the garment is available in sizes ranging from XS to 5XL, with the sample shown in Size S. Finished bust measurements range from 34 inches (XS) to 66 inches (5XL), with hip measurements from 36 to 68 inches, fitting with 4 to 6 inches of positive ease for comfortable wear.

Yarn and Materials

The Bedford is knitted in Valley Yarns Becket, a luxurious blend of 50% Superfine Alpaca and 50% Wool. This fiber combination delivers both softness and warmth, with gorgeously heathered colorways. The sample shown uses the color Deep Woods. Yarn requirements vary by size, ranging from 7 balls for the smallest size (XS) to 13 balls for the largest size (5XL). Each ball contains 100 grams and 141 yards of yarn.

Additional materials include US size 9 (5.5 mm) and US size 8 (5.0 mm) circular needles in both 12–24 inch and 24–40 inch lengths. Other notions required are stitch markers (including 2 in a unique color for pattern tracking), a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, 9 buttons measuring ¾ inch in diameter, and a sewing needle with matching thread for button attachment.

Techniques Used

The Bedford employs a combination of knitting techniques to create its structured, flattering silhouette. The garment is worked flat (back and forth in rows) for the body and collar sections, allowing for easy shaping and button band integration. The body is constructed bottom-up, beginning at the ribbed hem and progressing upward to the armholes with integrated A-line shaping. Once the armholes are reached, the piece is divided into separate Back and Front sections.

Sleeves are worked in the round from the armholes downward, creating seamless, comfortable arm openings. This mixed approach—combining flat and circular knitting—allows the designer to achieve both structured body shaping and comfortable, well-fitting sleeves. The cardigan is seamed during finishing, with optional patch pockets worked separately and sewn to the front panels. The button bands are worked together with the body during construction rather than picked up afterward, streamlining the assembly process.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout the Bedford is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric with a refined appearance that showcases the heathered colors and soft texture of the Becket yarn. The hem begins with ribbing, which provides elasticity and a finished edge that hugs the body. Gauge is critical to this project: 16 stitches and 22 rows equal 4 inches when worked in stockinette stitch on US size 9 needles and blocked.

The pattern uses stitch markers to track shaping and pattern repeats, with two markers in a unique color to help distinguish key pattern points. The high collar is created by picking up stitches along the bound-off neck edges and working back and forth in rows, allowing for a structured, stand-up neckline that frames the face.

Construction Notes

The Bedford offers flexibility for customization. The cardigan fits with 4 to 6 inches of positive ease; those preferring a closer fit should knit the next smaller size. The body length can be extended by delaying the start of A-line shaping, though this requires additional yarn. The pattern provides detailed guidance on gauge, sizing, and finishing techniques, making it accessible to intermediate knitters ready to tackle a structured garment with multiple construction methods.