Rowan Curtis Jumper Knitting Pattern

Rowan Curtis Knitted Sweater by Martin Storey

What is Being Made

The Rowan Curtis is a knitted sweater designed by Martin Storey, available in six size options to fit chest measurements from 81-86 cm up to 132-137 cm (32-54 inches). The finished garment chest measurements range from 101 cm to 150 cm, providing comfortable ease for everyday wear. This is a classic pullover-style jumper constructed with a coordinated back and front, shaped shoulders, and a defined neckline.

Construction Technique

The Curtis sweater is worked flat on straight needles and assembled using the seamed method, meaning pieces are knitted separately and then stitched together. The garment is constructed bottom-up, beginning with the ribbed lower edges and working upward toward the shoulders. This traditional approach allows for straightforward sizing adjustments and fitting checks during the knitting process.

Stitch Pattern and Colorwork

The Curtis features a stranded colorwork pattern, a technique where multiple colors of yarn are carried across the back of the work to create a jacquard-style design on the fabric surface. The pattern instructions reference maintaining the stitch pattern throughout shaping, indicating that the colorwork motif is integral to the sweater's aesthetic. Stranded knitting creates a dense, warm fabric ideal for a substantial sweater.

Materials Required

Yarn: This pattern uses Rowan Felted Tweed Aran, a worsted-weight yarn in two colorways:

• Carbon Tweed (color 759): 12-19 balls of 50g depending on size
• Clay Tweed (color 777): 5-7 balls of 50g depending on size

Needles: The pattern requires two pairs of needles—4mm (US 6) needles for ribbed edgings and 5mm (US 8) needles for the main fabric. The 5mm needles are used to achieve the specified tension.

Gauge and Tension

The pattern is worked to a tension of 18.5 stitches and 32 rows over 10 centimeters when measured over the stranded pattern using 5mm (US 8) needles. Achieving correct gauge is essential for proper fit, particularly important in a seamed garment where precise measurements determine how pieces align during assembly.

Shaping Details

The sweater features tailored shaping at both the back and front. The back includes shoulder shaping created by casting off stitches at regular intervals, combined with back neck shaping that leaves center stitches on a holder for later finishing. The front neck is shaped deeper than the back, with graduated decreases at the neck edge worked over multiple rows. This creates a flattering neckline while the shoulder seams are positioned correctly for proper garment drape.