Rowan McQueen Cardigan Knitting Pattern

Rowan McQueen Cardigan by Martin Storey

What is Being Made

The Rowan McQueen is a classic knitted cardigan designed by Martin Storey. This garment is available in six sizes to fit chest measurements ranging from 81-86 cm (32-34 inches) through to 132-137 cm (52-54 inches), with finished chest measurements from 100 cm (39½ inches) to 150 cm (59 inches). The cardigan features a structured silhouette with set-in raglan sleeves, functional patch pockets, and a button front closure.

Techniques Used

The McQueen cardigan is constructed using bottom-up knitting methodology, meaning the garment is worked from the lower edge upward. The pieces are worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, and the finished components are seamed together to create the final garment. This traditional construction approach allows for precise shaping and professional finishing.

The cardigan incorporates several advanced shaping techniques. Raglan armhole shaping is worked with graduated decreases that create the distinctive sloped shoulder line characteristic of raglan sleeves. The pattern uses slip stitch decreases (slip 1, knit 1, pass slipped stitch over) and purl two together through back loop decreases to shape the armholes while maintaining stitch definition. Pocket placement is achieved through the integration of separately knitted pocket linings that are grafted into position during construction.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout the McQueen is stockinette stitch (st st), which creates the smooth, classic fabric characteristic of traditional knitwear. This stitch is alternated with garter stitch (g st) in specific sections, including the ribbed edgings and pocket details. The garter stitch sections provide textural contrast and structural stability at edges and openings.

Decreases are worked using slip stitch decreases and purl two together through back loop techniques, which are worked at the raglan armhole edges to create clean, professional-looking shaping. These decreases are worked in a specific sequence to maintain consistent stitch definition throughout the armhole shaping process.

Materials

The Rowan McQueen is designed to be knitted using Rowan Felted Tweed yarn, a premium wool blend. Yarn quantities range from 8 x 50gm balls for the smallest size to 12 x 50gm balls for the largest size. The pattern is photographed in the colorway Tawny 186.

The pattern requires two needle sizes: 3¼mm (US 3) needles for the ribbed edgings and initial cast-on, and 3¾mm (US 5) needles for the main body fabric. A 3¼mm (US 3) circular needle measuring at least 100 cm in length is also required, likely for finishing and neckline work. The cardigan is finished with five buttons (Groves & Banks reference 39551), which are spaced along the front opening.

The pattern specifies a tension of 28 stitches and 32 rows over 10 cm (4 inches) measured in stockinette stitch on 3¾mm (US 5) needles, which is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements.