Fern Jumper Knitting Pattern

Fern Knitted Sweater by Quail Studio

What is Being Made

Fern is a knitted pullover sweater designed by Quail Studio for MODE at Rowan. This garment is available in nine sizes, ranging from chest measurements of 71-76cm (28-30 inches) up to 152-157cm (60-62 inches), with finished chest measurements from 100cm to 180cm. The sweater features a classic pullover construction with set-in sleeves and a ribbed neckband, making it a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions.

Techniques and Construction Methods

The Fern sweater employs several key knitting techniques to create its distinctive appearance and structure. The garment is constructed using reverse stocking stitch as the primary fabric pattern, which creates a textured surface with a subtle, refined appearance. This technique is combined with ribbed detailing along the side seams and underarms, providing both visual interest and structural stability to the piece.

The pattern incorporates decreasing techniques to shape the sleeves, using methods such as P2tog (purl two together) and ssp (slip, slip, purl) decreases positioned symmetrically at each end of rows. The sweater features a set-in sleeve construction, which requires careful shaping and measurement to ensure proper fit and garment proportions. The neckband is worked in the round using circular needles, a common technique for creating seamless, professional-looking necklines.

Stitches Used

The primary stitches featured in this pattern include:

• Reverse stocking stitch – the main fabric stitch, created by purling on right-side rows and knitting on wrong-side rows, producing a bumpy textured surface
• Ribbing (K1, P1) – alternating knit and purl stitches used for the cuffs, neckband, and side seam details to create elasticity and definition
• Purl two together (P2tog) – a right-leaning decrease used for sleeve shaping
• Slip, slip, purl (ssp) – a left-leaning decrease used for balanced sleeve shaping

Materials and Equipment

The Fern sweater is designed to be knitted using two complementary yarns held together throughout, combining texture and color in a sophisticated blend. The yarn specifications are:

• Softest Alpaca Linen 015 in a neutral shade – the primary yarn, requiring 7 to 10 balls (50gm each) depending on size
• Alpaca Haze Mink 015 – an accent yarn held together with the main yarn, requiring 4 to 7 balls (25gm each) depending on size

Both yarns are from the MODE at Rowan collection, known for their quality and luxurious fiber content. The pattern calls for 6mm (US 10) needles, including one pair of straight needles for the main body and sleeves, plus 6mm circular needles measuring 40cm for working the neckband in the round. Additional supplies include stitch markers and stitch holders for managing stitches during construction.

Gauge and Difficulty Level

The pattern specifies a tension of 15 stitches and 23 rows to 10 centimeters, measured over reverse stocking stitch using 6mm needles while holding one strand of each yarn together. Achieving correct gauge is essential for proper fit across all nine sizes. The Fern sweater is classified as advanced beginner difficulty, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to tackle more complex shaping, including set-in sleeves and multi-yarn construction.