Valley Yarns Mikan Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Mikan: Oversized V-Neck Knit Top

What Is Being Made

The Valley Yarns Mikan is a clean-lined, oversized v-neck knit top designed by Julie Turjoman. This versatile garment functions as both a standalone tee shirt and as a modern layering piece to wear over long-sleeved shirts. The topper falls to mid-hip and is designed with 4–6 inches of positive ease for a relaxed, comfortable fit. Available in sizes XS through 5XL, with finished bust measurements ranging from 36 inches to 68 inches, the Mikan accommodates a wide range of body types and style preferences.

Construction and Techniques

The Mikan is constructed using a combination of seamless and flat knitting techniques that minimize shaping and construction complexity. The body is worked in the round on circular needles from the bottom up to the armholes, creating a seamless tube. At the armholes, knitting transitions to working flat (back and forth) to shape the drop shoulders using short-row shaping. This technique creates smooth, gradual shoulder contours without traditional seaming.

The front and back pieces are joined using the Three-Needle Bind-Off technique, a method that creates a secure, finished seam while binding off stitches simultaneously. The V-neck shaping is worked into the front piece during the flat sections, creating a flattering neckline. After the body and shoulders are complete, the ribbed neckband is worked from stitches picked up around the neckline, a common finishing technique that creates a neat, elastic edge. The bottom edges of the V-neckband are overlapped and seamed into the bind-off edge at the center front neckline for a polished finish.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern used throughout the Mikan is stockinette stitch, a fundamental knit fabric that creates a smooth, classic appearance. The ribbed neckband employs ribbing, an elastic stitch pattern that provides recovery and a refined edge. The gauge for the body is 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch on the larger needles when blocked, ensuring consistent fabric density and finished measurements.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Mikan is worked in Valley Yarns Hampden, a luxurious blend yarn composed of 50% Baby Alpaca, 35% Fine Merino Wool, and 15% Mulberry Silk. This fiber combination provides a soft, sumptuous feel with gentle drape, creating what the pattern describes as "casual elegance." Each hank contains 50 grams and 95 yards. Yarn requirements range from 6 hanks for the smallest size (XS) to 18 hanks for the largest size (5XL). The pattern shown is worked in Color 11 - Evergreen.

Two needle sizes are required for this project. Size 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles in 16-inch and 32–40 inch lengths, along with double-pointed needles, are used for the main body worked at gauge. Size 5 (3.75 mm) circular needles in 16-inch, 24-inch, and 32–40 inch lengths are used for the ribbed neckband and other ribbed edgings, which are worked at a tighter gauge to create elasticity. Additional materials include stitch holders or waste yarn for holding stitches during construction and a tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends.

Skill Level and Design Notes

The Mikan is rated as an Adventurous Beginner level project, making it accessible to knitters progressing beyond basic skills while remaining engaging for experienced knitters. The minimal shaping and straightforward construction contribute to its approachability. The pattern notes that if a closer fit is preferred, knitters can make one size smaller than their usual size. The topper can also be lengthened beyond the mid-hip length, though additional yarn will be required for longer versions.