Rowan Tidings Jumper Knitting Pattern

Rowan Tidings Knitted Sweater by Vicky Sedgwick

What is Being Made

Rowan Tidings is an intermediate-level knitted sweater designed by Vicky Sedgwick. This pullover-style jumper is available in eight sizes ranging from XXS to 2XL, with bust/chest measurements from 91 cm (36 inches) to 153 cm (50 inches). The garment features a fitted silhouette with shaped armholes, shoulder shaping, and a front neck opening that requires careful construction.

Knitting Techniques Used

This pattern employs several essential knitting techniques suitable for intermediate crafters. The sweater incorporates colorwork charting, with specific instructions to keep the pattern correct across multiple rows (rows 25 to 61 on the chart). The construction involves armhole shaping achieved through casting off stitches at the beginning of rows followed by graduated decreases. Shoulder shaping is accomplished through strategic cast-offs, and neck shaping requires decreasing stitches at the neck edge while simultaneously managing shoulder seams. The pattern uses stitch holders to manage live stitches during construction, particularly for the back and front neck sections.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout Rowan Tidings is stockinette stitch, which serves as the foundation for the patterned fabric. The pattern incorporates chart-based colorwork, utilizing five different yarn colors (designated A through E) that are worked into the fabric according to the provided chart rows. The tension is measured over patterned stockinette stitch, indicating that the colorwork is integrated directly into the knit structure rather than applied afterward. Decreasing techniques include single decreases at each end of rows and decreases at the neck edge, which are worked over multiple rows and alternating rows to create smooth shaping.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Rowan Tidings is knitted using Rowan Felted Tweed yarn, a premium wool-based fiber available in two complete colorway options. The first colorway combines Clay (177), Carbon (159), Mineral (181), Gilt (160), and Ginger (154). The second colorway features Clay (177), Carbon (159), Celadon (184), Avocado (161), and Pine (158). Yarn quantities vary by color and size, with the main color (A) requiring 7 to 11 x 50gm balls depending on size, while accent colors (C, D, and E) each require 1 x 50gm ball across all sizes.

The pattern calls for two needle sizes to create proper fabric structure and tension. 3.25mm (US 3) needles are used for initial ribbing or edge work, while 4mm (US 6) needles are used for the main body fabric where the tension is measured at 24 stitches and 26 rows to 10 cm over patterned stockinette stitch.

Construction Details

• Armhole depth ranges from approximately 20 cm (smallest sizes) to 30 cm (largest sizes)
• Back neck stitches are placed on a holder, with center stitches ranging from 37 to 45 stitches depending on size
• Front neck shaping begins 14 to 18 rows before back shoulder shaping, creating a deeper front neckline
• Shoulder cast-offs progress in stages, with initial cast-offs of 4 to 9 stitches followed by additional cast-offs of 5 to 10 stitches
• Neck edge decreases are worked over 4 rows to create a smooth, professional finish

Pattern Characteristics

This is a paid downloadable PDF pattern exclusive to Rowan, making it accessible for digital crafters who prefer electronic formats. The pattern provides comprehensive sizing information and detailed shaping instructions suitable for knitters with intermediate experience. The use of premium Felted Tweed yarn combined with colorwork charting creates a sophisticated, textured garment with visual interest throughout the body of the sweater.