Valley Yarns Jacaranda Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Jacaranda Knit Top

Project Overview

The Jacaranda is a color-blocked short-sleeved knit top designed by Julie Turjoman, perfect for warm weather wear. This boxy-fit pullover features a scoop neckline and deep side splits for breathability and movement. The garment is worked in three distinct colors using wide horizontal stripes, creating a striking visual design that knitters can customize with various color combinations. Available in sizes XS through 5XL with finished bust measurements ranging from 35" to 67", the Jacaranda is designed to fit with 4" to 6" positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed silhouette.

Construction Techniques

The Jacaranda is worked flat in separate pieces from the hem upward using a bottom-up construction method. The body is knitted as individual sections that are later seamed together for structure and definition. Deep side splits are incorporated into the body pieces to enhance drape and allow for additional breathability on warm days. Short-row shaping is used at the shoulders to create a smooth, well-fitted neckline. Cap sleeves are knitted on after the body is complete, rather than being picked up and worked in the round, adding a tailored finish to the garment. Selvage stitches—knit on right-side rows and purled on wrong-side rows—are worked at the first and last stitch of every row to create clean edges for seaming.

Stitch Details

The primary fabric is worked in stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic knit surface ideal for showcasing the color-blocking design. The gauge is 18 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch when worked on the larger needles and blocked. Ribbed edgings are incorporated throughout the garment using K1/P1 (knit one, purl one) rib with color tipping, which adds elasticity and a polished finish to the neckband and cap sleeve openings. The ribbed edgings are worked on smaller needles to ensure they sit smoothly against the body.

Color and Stripe Pattern

The Jacaranda features three distinct color blocks worked as wide horizontal stripes across the garment. Yarn is cut between color changes, leaving tails to be woven in later, creating distinct color transitions rather than carrying yarn up the sides. The pattern provides multiple color options: Color A serves as the primary body color and is available in Nantucket Blue or Ginger; Color B is an accent stripe available in Natural or Toffee; and Color C forms the largest color block and is available in African Violet or Smoky Quartz. This three-color approach allows knitters to create personalized combinations suited to their preferences.

Yarn and Materials

The Jacaranda is designed to be knitted with Valley Yarns Southwick, a premium blend of 52% Pima Cotton and 48% Bamboo. This fiber combination provides exceptional breathability, comfort, and drape—essential qualities for a warm-weather garment. Southwick is available in multiple colorways, with yardage requirements varying by size: Color A requires 3 to 7 balls (105 yards per 50-gram ball) depending on size; Color B requires 1 to 2 balls; and Color C requires 4 to 10 balls. The pattern calls for US 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles in both 16" and 24"–32" lengths for the main fabric, and US 6 (4.0 mm) circular needles and double-pointed needles for the ribbed edgings. Additional materials include stitch holders, stitch markers, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and seaming.

Skill Level and Finished Dimensions

The Jacaranda is rated as Advanced Beginner difficulty, making it accessible to knitters with some foundational experience while still offering interesting construction techniques. The pattern includes eight size options spanning XS to 5XL, with finished bust measurements of 35", 39", 43", 47", 51", 55", 59", 63", and 67". The garment is shown in both Size S and Size XL to demonstrate the range of the design. The positive ease of 4" to 6" ensures a comfortable, contemporary fit without clinging to the body.