Marlowe Jumper Knitting Pattern

Marlowe Sweater by Quail Studio

What is Being Made

Marlowe is an intermediate-level knitted sweater designed by Quail Studio and published by MODE at Rowan. This pullover garment is crafted to fit chest sizes ranging from 71-76 cm (28-30 inches) through 152-157 cm (60-62 inches), making it suitable for a wide range of body sizes. The sweater features a classic construction with shaped shoulders, set-in sleeves, and a finished neckband, creating a versatile wardrobe piece.

Techniques Used

The Marlowe sweater employs several key knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters. The pattern includes mistake rib, a textured stitch pattern that creates visual interest while remaining relatively forgiving for knitters. Shaping techniques are incorporated throughout the garment, including strategic decreases at the neck edge and shoulder shaping to create a well-fitted silhouette. The pattern uses stitch holders to manage stitches during construction, particularly for the front neckline and back neck sections. The neckband is worked in the round using circular needles, demonstrating proficiency with both flat and circular knitting methods.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern is mistake rib, which alternates knit and purl stitches in a specific sequence. Row 1 (RS) works as *K3, P1* repeating to the last 3 stitches, finished with K3. Row 2 (WS) begins with K1, then *K3, P1* repeating to the final stitch, ending with K1. This creates a subtle ribbed texture that differs slightly from traditional rib due to the staggered pattern repeat, adding visual complexity while maintaining elasticity. The pattern also incorporates standard decreasing techniques for shaping, including patt 2 tog (pattern 2 together) decreases worked at neck and shoulder edges.

Materials and Tools

Marlowe is designed to be worked in Softest Alpaca by MODE at Rowan, a luxury fiber known for its softness and drape. Yarn quantities vary by size, ranging from 12 balls (50 grams each) for the smallest sizes through 20 balls for the largest size. The pattern is photographed in the colorway Sugar 017, providing a clear visual reference for finished appearance. Construction requires 5mm (US 8) needles in both straight and circular formats: one pair of straight 5mm needles for the main body and sleeves, and 5mm circular needles measuring 40 cm for the neckband. Additional notions include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, and stitch holders for managing live stitches during construction. The pattern specifies a tension of 22 stitches and 32 rows to 10 cm measured over mistake rib using 5mm needles, which is essential for achieving the correct finished garment dimensions.