Rowan Maxfield Jumper Knitting Pattern

Rowan Maxfield Knitted Sweater by Martin Storey

What is Being Made

Maxfield is an intermediate-level knitted sweater designed by Martin Storey for Rowan. This pullover sweater is available in seven sizes, ranging from XS to 2XL, with finished chest measurements from 97 cm to 127 cm (38 to 50 inches). The garment features a classic crew neckline with structured shoulder shaping and is constructed using a charted patterning technique throughout.

Techniques Used

This knitting pattern employs several intermediate techniques that make it suitable for knitters with some experience. The sweater is worked primarily in a stitch pattern that is charted, with specific attention to row sequences. Chart A is a key component of the design, with rows 20-25 beginning with a knit row and ending with a purl row. The pattern requires working armhole shaping, which involves strategic decreasing to create proper fit. Shoulder shaping is accomplished through casting off stitches at the beginning of rows over multiple rows to create a sloped shoulder line. Neck shaping is worked by dividing the front stitches and working each side separately, with decreases worked at the neck edge over several rows and alternating rows to create a gradual, professional-looking neckline curve.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern is a textured combination of knit and purl stitches worked in a regular repeat. The ribbing at the cast-on edge uses a K3, P3 ribbing pattern (knit 3 stitches, purl 3 stitches), which provides elasticity and definition at the lower edge of the sweater. The main body features a charted stitch pattern that creates texture and visual interest across the front and back pieces. All shaping, including armholes, shoulders, and neckline, is worked in pattern, meaning the stitch pattern is maintained while decreases and cast-offs are integrated into the design.

Materials Required

This pattern calls for Rowan Felted Tweed yarn, a classic wool blend that provides structure and drape suitable for sweater construction. The yarn is worked at a gauge of 28 stitches and 25 rows to 10 centimeters using 3¾mm (US 5) needles over the pattern stitch.

Yarn quantities vary by size:

• Shade A (Seafarer): 6 to 9 balls of 50-gram weight, depending on size
• Shade B (Clay): 5 to 6 balls of 50-gram weight, depending on size

Two needle sizes are required for this project:

• 3¼mm (UK no 10 / US 3) needles for the ribbed cast-on edge
• 3¾mm (UK no 9 / US 5) needles for the main body and pattern work

The use of two needle sizes creates a subtle tension change that helps the ribbing sit neatly without rolling while allowing the main body to work at the correct gauge for the charted pattern.