Rumford

Rumford Cardigan by Kristen TenDyke

What is Being Made

Rumford is a knitted cardigan designed by Kristen TenDyke featuring a classic construction with a structured yoke. This intermediate-level project is available as a downloadable PDF pattern and is designed to be worn with 1–3 inches of ease for a comfortable, versatile fit. The cardigan is offered in seven sizes, ranging from 31 ½ inches to 57 ¾ inches in bust measurement when buttoned, accommodating a wide range of body types.

Construction Technique

Rumford employs a bottom-up construction method that builds efficiency and control into the garment-making process. The sleeves and body are worked separately from the bottom edge up to the underarm, where they are then joined together and worked as one piece for the yoke section. The yoke features four raglan decrease lines that taper gradually from the underarm all the way to the neckline, creating a flattering, fitted shoulder area. After the yoke is complete, stitches for the collar and button bands are picked up from the existing fabric, and the underarm stitches are joined using a three-needle bind-off technique to create a secure, professional finish.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The pattern incorporates a Circular Welt Pattern as a key design element. This stitch pattern is created by working three consecutive purl rounds, which produces a textured, ribbed appearance that adds visual interest and dimension to the finished cardigan. The pattern also includes regular increase rounds strategically placed throughout the construction to shape the garment. Increases are repeated at varying intervals depending on the size being knitted—every 12th, 10th, or 8th round—allowing the pattern to scale proportionally across all seven sizes.

Materials and Tools

Rumford is designed to be knitted with chunky-weight yarn, which creates a quick, satisfying knitting experience and produces a warm, substantial fabric. The suggested yarn is Green Mountain yarn, with yardage requirements ranging from 6 to 10 hanks depending on the finished size. The pattern specifically recommends using a circular needle for both the body and yoke sections to comfortably accommodate the large number of stitches required for this garment, ensuring smooth, even knitting throughout the project.

Finished Measurements

• Bust (buttoned): 31 ½ (35 ¾, 40 ¼, 44 ½, 49, 53 ¼, 57 ¾) inches / 80 (91, 102, 113, 124.5, 135.5, 146.5) cm
• Length: 24 (24 ¼, 24 ¾, 25 ¾, 26 ¼, 26 ¾, 26 ¾) inches / 61 (61.5, 63, 65.5, 66.5, 68, 68) cm
• Shown in size 35 ¾ inches / 91 cm