Juniper Moon Farm Jumper Knitting Pattern

Murphy Sweater and Tunic by Ursula McGrath

What is Being Made

The Murphy is a versatile knitted sweater and tunic design from Juniper Moon Farm's Rainbow Summer Collection, offered in multiple sizes ranging from children's 2-3 years through adult 38-40" chest. The pattern provides finished measurements for both a sweater version and a longer tunic version, allowing knitters to choose their preferred garment length. The sweater features a classic pullover silhouette with set-in sleeves, while the tunic extends the body length for a longer, dressier option.

Techniques Used

Murphy is constructed using bottom-up knitting methodology, meaning the garment is worked from the lower edge upward. The pattern employs seamed construction, with pieces knitted flat and then sewn together at completion. The design features prominent horizontal stripes created through color changes, adding visual interest and dimension to the finished piece. The striping technique is integrated throughout the body and sleeves, creating a cohesive colorwork effect without the complexity of intarsia or fair isle methods.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Murphy utilizes fundamental knitting stitches combined into structured stitch patterns. The base fabric is worked in stockinette stitch (alternating knit and purl rows), which creates the smooth, classic sweater fabric. The pattern incorporates a slipped stitch stripe detail using the technique of slipping stitches purlwise with yarn manipulation, creating textured horizontal lines within the striped sections. A ribbed stitch pattern appears in the armhole shaping area, worked as alternating knit and purl stitches (K1, P1 ribbing), which adds elasticity and definition to the garment edges. The pattern also includes reverse stockinette sections (purl-side facing outward) for additional textural variation.

Armhole and Shoulder Shaping

The Murphy features structured armhole shaping achieved through cast-off decreases at the armhole opening, removing 2-3 stitches at the beginning of consecutive rows depending on size. Following the initial cast-offs, the pattern incorporates single stitch decreases at each end of subsequent rows to create a smooth, tapered armhole. The shoulder shaping is worked at the conclusion of the piece, creating a properly fitted sleeve cap and neckline opening.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Murphy is designed to be worked with Juniper Moon Farm NIMBUS yarn and NIMBUS STRIPES yarn, which are specifically selected to create the striped colorwork effect featured in the Rainbow Summer Collection. The pattern requires appropriate knitting needles sized to achieve proper gauge with the selected yarn. Finished measurements range from 24" to 46" in width and 14" to 27" in length for the sweater, with sleeve lengths varying from 9" to 18½" depending on the chosen size.

Construction Summary

The Murphy is an ideal project for knitters seeking a straightforward garment with visual impact through color and texture rather than complex stitch work. The bottom-up, flat-knit, seamed construction method makes it accessible for intermediate knitters while the horizontal stripe patterns and slipped stitch details add sophistication to the final piece. The availability of both sweater and tunic lengths in nine size ranges makes Murphy adaptable for various body types and style preferences within a single pattern.