1133 Bedford - Cardigan Knitting Pattern for Women in Valley Yarns Becket

Pattern Summary: 1133 Bedford Cardigan Coat – Knitting Pattern for Women by Julie Turjoman

The 1133 Bedford is a women's cardigan coat knitting pattern designed by Julie Turjoman and published by Valley Yarns. This intermediate-level pattern produces a sophisticated, everyday layering piece that sits at mid-thigh length, making it a versatile transitional-season garment. With its high collar, flattering A-line silhouette, optional patch pockets, and button-front closure, the Bedford is designed to fill the gap between lightweight and heavy outerwear — a stylish, cozy cardigan coat you'll reach for again and again.

Garment Overview

The Bedford cardigan coat is sized to fit a wide range of bodies, offered in nine sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, and 5XL. Finished bust measurements range from 34" to 66" with the front buttoned, and hip measurements range from 36" to 68". The pattern is designed with 4–6 inches of positive ease, giving the finished garment a relaxed, comfortable fit. Knitters who prefer less ease are advised to select the next smaller size. The body length can also be customized by adjusting when the A-line shaping begins, though additional yarn will be required for a longer version.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a long, A-line cardigan coat with a set-in sleeve construction, a high ribbed collar, integrated button bands, and optional patch pockets. The garment hits at mid-thigh and features nine ¾-inch buttons along the front closure. The A-line shaping gives the coat a gently flared hem that is both flattering and practical for layering over other garments.

Construction Techniques

• Bottom-up construction: The body is worked from the ribbed hem upward to the armholes, establishing the A-line shape as it progresses.
• Worked flat (back and forth in rows): The main body is worked flat on circular needles from the hem to the armhole division, allowing for the seamed construction of this garment.
• Divided at the armhole: After reaching the armholes, the work is divided and the Back and Fronts are worked separately.
• Sleeves worked in the round: The sleeves are picked up at the armholes and worked downward in the round on circular needles, which minimizes seaming on the sleeve portion.
• Seamed finishing: The overall construction is seamed, giving the finished garment structure and a polished, tailored appearance.
• Integrated button bands: Button bands are worked together with the body rather than picked up afterward, streamlining the finishing process.
• Picked-up collar: Collar stitches are picked up along the bound-off neck edges and worked back and forth in rows to create the high collar.
• Optional patch pockets: Patch pockets are worked separately as flat pieces and then seamed onto the fronts during finishing.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch: The primary stitch pattern used throughout the body and sleeves, creating a smooth, classic fabric. Gauge is measured in stockinette stitch.
• Ribbing: Used at the hem and for the high collar, ribbing provides elasticity and a neat, structured edge.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for Valley Yarns Becket, a luxurious 50% Superfine Alpaca / 50% Wool blend yarn in a chunky/worsted weight (100g, 141 yards per ball). The sample shown in the pattern is knitted in the colorway Deep Woods, a richly heathered shade that showcases the yarn's naturally beautiful tonal depth. Yardage requirements range from 7 balls for size XS up to 13 balls for size 5XL.

Valley Yarns Becket is prized for its soft hand, cozy warmth, and gorgeous heathered colorways — qualities that make it particularly well suited to a substantial layering piece like