KE009 Middlebury - Jumper Knitting Pattern for Women in Valley Yarns Hampden by Valley Yarns

KE009 Middlebury Women's V-Neck Jumper Knitting Pattern

Garment Overview

The Middlebury is a sophisticated women's V-neck pullover sweater designed by Julie Turjoman for Valley Yarns. This intermediate-level knitting pattern features elegant gradient stripes in shades of grey complemented by vibrant acid green accents at the hems. The design exemplifies the "Fall in New England" collection aesthetic, combining classic colorwork with contemporary styling. Available in eight sizes ranging from XS to 4XL, with finished bust measurements from 33½ inches to 61½ inches, this jumper is designed to be worn with 3 to 5 inches of positive ease for a comfortable, relaxed fit.

Construction Techniques

The Middlebury employs a hybrid construction method that combines efficiency with design flexibility. The lower body is worked in the round from the hem to the armholes, creating seamless fabric that showcases the gradient stripe pattern without interruption. At the armhole shaping, the pattern transitions to worked flat construction. Stitches are cast on for flowing knitted-on sleeves that are worked horizontally in rows together with the upper body, allowing the designer to integrate the sleeve cap shaping and upper body in a unified manner. This technique creates elegant, flowing sleeves while maintaining the integrity of the stripe pattern across the shoulders and upper chest.

Stitch Work and Colorwork

The primary design feature is gradient stripes that transition through multiple shades of grey, with strategic pops of acid green (Lizard green) emphasizing the hems and creating visual interest. The stripe pattern is created through color changes worked into the knit structure, allowing the soft texture of the yarn to blend the grey tones while the contrasting green creates definition at the garment edges. The V-neck shaping provides a flattering neckline that complements the striped colorwork.

Yarn and Materials

The Middlebury is designed specifically for Valley Yarns Hampden, a luxury blend yarn composed of 50% Baby Alpaca, 35% Fine Merino Wool, and 15% Mulberry Silk. Each hank yields 95 yards and weighs 50 grams, classified as DK weight yarn. The pattern calls for three colors:

• Color A (Black 05): 4 to 7 hanks depending on size
• Color B (Charcoal 04): 3 to 6 hanks depending on size
• Color C (Lizard Green): 5 to 8 hanks depending on size

The Hampden yarn's soft hand and slightly fuzzy appearance creates an ideal base for blending the grey tones while allowing the Lizard green to stand out distinctly at the hems. The blend of baby alpaca, merino wool, and mulberry silk provides warmth, softness, and a luxurious drape suitable for a cozy fall sweater.

Skill Level and Specifications

Rated as intermediate difficulty, the Middlebury requires knitters to be comfortable with circular needle techniques, color changes, and the transition between working in the round and working flat. The pattern is available as a downloadable PDF, making it accessible for immediate use. This is pattern #KE009 from Valley Yarns, version 1 dated August 1, 2022.