Valley Yarns Julia Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Julia Cardigan

Garment Overview

The Valley Yarns Julia Cardigan is a seamless knit cardigan designed by Kirsten Hipsky. This versatile, multi-season wardrobe staple features a simple, open construction with flattering three-quarter length sleeves. The cardigan is available in six finished sizes ranging from 36 inches to 60 inches across the chest, accommodating a wide range of body measurements from 32-34 inches up to 56-58 inches.

Construction Technique

This cardigan is constructed using a seamless raglan sleeve construction method, which creates a smooth, uninterrupted line from the neckline down through the shoulders and sleeves. The seamless approach eliminates the need for seaming, resulting in a cleaner finish and more comfortable wear. The design begins with a yoke section worked from the top down, with strategic increases placed at marked intervals to shape the raglan sleeves and body.

The lower body is worked separately and later joined to the yoke. The cardigan features a garter stitch band at the hem for a finished edge, measuring 2 inches in depth. The front edges remain open, creating the cardigan's characteristic open front design.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

• Stockinette Stitch (St st): The primary stitch used throughout the main body and sleeves, creating a smooth, classic knit fabric
• Garter Stitch: Used for the 2-inch hem band at the lower edge, providing a textured, reversible border
• Make One (m1) Increases: Worked by knitting into the back of the strand running between needles, these increases are strategically placed at four marked positions (two front sections, two sleeve sections, and back section) to shape the raglan sleeves and body. Increases are worked every other row for 13 to 23 rows depending on size, creating gradual, even shaping
• Marker Placement and Slipping: Markers are used throughout to denote increase points and to hold stitches temporarily during construction

Yarn and Needle Requirements

The Julia Cardigan is designed to be worked in Valley Yarns Valley Superwash Bulky, a yarn composed of 100% Extrafine Merino Superwash. This bulky-weight yarn provides excellent drape and softness while remaining easy to care for due to its superwash treatment. Yardage requirements range from 763 yards for the smallest size (7 skeins of 109 yards each) to 1,417 yards for the largest size (13 skeins), allowing crafters to select the appropriate quantity based on their finished size.

The pattern calls for US size 10.5 (6.50mm) circular needles measuring 40 inches in length, along with double-pointed needles of the same size. The circular needle accommodates the large number of stitches required for the yoke and body, while double-pointed needles are used for smaller circumferences, particularly when working the sleeves. Crafters should use needles that achieve the specified gauge or adjust needle size as needed to match the pattern's gauge requirement.

Gauge and Fit

The pattern specifies a gauge of 3 stitches and 4 rows per 1 inch in stockinette stitch. Achieving proper gauge is essential for the cardigan to fit correctly across all six size options. The finished measurements range from 36 inches for the smallest size to 60 inches for the largest, with intermediate options at 40, 44, 48, 52, and 56 inches.

Difficulty Level

Rated as advanced beginner, this pattern is suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques including casting on, knit and purl stitches, and simple shaping. The seamless raglan construction and the use of circular needles require comfort with working in the round and managing multiple stitch markers. The strategic increase placement and yoke shaping add moderate complexity, making this an excellent project for knitters looking to expand their skills beyond basic garment construction while still maintaining an approachable difficulty level.