Juniper Moon Farm Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Juniper Moon Farm Merri Marled Jacket

What is Being Made

The Merri Marled Jacket is a knitted cardigan designed by Melissa Leapman as part of the Pasadena Collection. This garment is available in six sizes ranging from Small to 3X-Large, with a finished bust measurement of 36 to 58.5 inches and a finished length of 24 inches. The cardigan features a classic button-front closure with five 7/8-inch diameter buttons and is designed to be a versatile layering piece.

Construction Method and Techniques

This cardigan is constructed using a bottom-up seamed approach, meaning the knitter works from the lower edge upward and assembles the finished pieces by sewing them together. The garment is worked in five separate pieces that are later seamed: two front panels, one back panel, and two sleeves. The collar is worked as a final step after all pieces have been sewn together.

The jacket features gradient stripes created through a unique color-swapping technique. Two strands of yarn are held together throughout the entire project, with one strand being exchanged every 24 rows to create a subtle marled striping effect. This method produces a sophisticated color transition rather than bold, distinct stripes.

The cardigan incorporates fully fashioned raglan decreases to shape the armholes and sleeve cap. These decreases are worked on right-side rows using slip-slip-knit (ssk) and knit-two-together (k2tog) techniques, positioned two stitches in from the edges to create a decorative, finished appearance.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern is Double Seed Stitch, which is worked throughout the body and sleeves. Double Seed Stitch is a textured, reversible stitch that creates visual interest and drape. The pattern also employs standard knitting stitches including knit (k), purl (p), knit two together (k2tog), slip-slip-knit (ssk), slip-slip-purl (ssp), and various increases and decreases to shape the garment.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This project uses Juniper Moon Farm Findley yarn held with two strands throughout. The yarn is worked at a gauge of 28 stitches and 38 rows over 4 inches in Double Seed Stitch when blocked. The color palette consists of five coordinating shades:

• Color 27 Purple Petunia (A): 2 x 100g balls
• Color 37 Rich Purple (B): 2 x 100g balls
• Color 38 Deep Pink (C): 1 x 100g ball
• Color 32 Cerise (D): 2 x 100g balls
• Color 35 Bright Red (E): 1 to 2 x 100g balls depending on size

The yarn is worked on US Size 5 (3.75mm) knitting needles, or whatever needle size is necessary to achieve the required gauge. Checking gauge before beginning is essential, as it directly affects the finished measurements and fit of the cardigan.

Finishing Details

The cardigan is completed with five buttons for the front closure and includes a worked collar that is added after the main body pieces are seamed together. The finished garment is blocked to set the stitches and ensure proper measurements.