Marne Jacket Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Marne Jacket in Berroco Brielle

What is Being Made

The Marne Jacket is an intermediate-level knitted cardigan designed by Amy Christoffers. This garment is worked as a single piece from the bottom up to the underarms, then divided into separate back and front sections. The sleeves are constructed in the round to the underarms before transitioning to flat rows for the sleeve caps. The finished jacket offers a tailored fit with multiple size options ranging from 35 inches to 61½ inches in bust measurement, with corresponding length measurements between 21 and 25½ inches.

Techniques Used

This knitting project employs several intermediate-level techniques that build foundational skills. The body is worked in one continuous piece using circular needles, which allows for seamless construction and efficient stitch management. Sleeves are initially worked in the round using double-pointed needles, demonstrating circular knitting proficiency before transitioning to flat rows for shaping the sleeve caps. The pattern incorporates color work with three distinct yarn colors, requiring knitters to manage multiple strands and maintain consistent tension across color changes. Stitch markers and stitch holders are used throughout to track pattern repeats and hold stitches during construction phases.

Stitches Used

Linen Stitch is the primary stitch pattern used throughout the Marne Jacket. This textured stitch is worked differently depending on the construction method. When working in rows (flat knitting), Linen Stitch is created over an odd number of stitches using a two-row repeat: Row 1 (right side) consists of knit one, then alternating slipped stitches with yarn in front and knit stitches to the end. Row 2 (wrong side) begins with purl two, then alternates slipped stitches with yarn in back and purl stitches, ending with a purl stitch. When working in rounds (circular knitting), the stitch pattern is adapted to maintain the same texture while working continuously. The Linen Stitch creates a subtle, refined fabric with excellent drape and a sophisticated appearance suitable for a tailored cardigan.

Materials and Yarn

The Marne Jacket is designed specifically for Berroco Brielle, a yarn that comes in 50-gram hanks. The pattern calls for three coordinating colors: #6503 Blond (C1) and #6531 Brun (C2), each required in quantities of 3 to 7 hanks depending on the size being knitted, and #6534 Noir (C3), needed in 1 to 2 hanks. The total yardage and fiber content specifications are determined by the Berroco Brielle yarn specifications.

Needles and Notions

Construction of the Marne Jacket requires a 29-inch circular needle (or longer) in both size 8 (5.00 mm) and size 10 (6.00 mm), with the larger size used for the main fabric. A complete set of four double-pointed needles in both sizes is necessary for working the sleeves in the round. Additional notions include 2 removable stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, 2 stitch holders for securing stitches during construction, and waste yarn for temporarily holding stitches.

Gauge

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper fit. The pattern specifies 18 stitches and 28 rows equal 4 inches in Linen Stitch on the larger (size 10) needles. Knitters are strongly advised to knit a gauge swatch before beginning the project to ensure accurate finished measurements and proper garment proportions.