Archer in MODE at Rowan Colourmix - Downloadable PDF

Archer Cape by Quail Studio for Mode at Rowan

What is Being Made

The Archer is a seamless knitted cape designed by Quail Studio and published by Mode at Rowan. This garment is a versatile layering piece suitable for a range of sizes, with actual chest measurements ranging from 80.5 cm (31¾ inches) to 160.5 cm (63¼ inches), accommodating sizes from 28-30 inches to 60-62 inches. The cape is constructed as a single seamless piece, eliminating the need for seaming and creating a smooth, continuous fabric.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Archer employs several key knitting techniques to create its finished structure. Seamless construction is central to this design, worked in the round using circular needles to eliminate seams entirely. The pattern incorporates shaping at the shoulders using decrease techniques to create a tailored fit. Stitch markers are used throughout to help track pattern repeats and shaping points, making the pattern easier to follow. The garment is worked with circular needle knitting, requiring needles in multiple lengths (40 cm, 60 cm, and 80 cm) to accommodate the expanding stitch counts as the cape grows in width.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Archer is worked primarily in rib pattern, which provides structure and elasticity to the finished garment. Ribbing is maintained throughout much of the design, creating vertical lines that are both visually appealing and functionally supportive. Decrease stitches are essential to the shaping, particularly at the shoulders where SSK (slip, slip, knit) and K2tog (knit two together) decreases are used to shape the neckline and shoulders. These decreases are worked strategically on specific rounds to create a fitted shoulder line while maintaining the overall rib pattern aesthetic.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Archer is designed to be worked in Colourmix yarn by Rowan, a 50-gram ball weight yarn. Yardage requirements vary by size, ranging from 4 balls for the smallest sizes (71-76 cm chest) to 8 balls for the largest size (152-157 cm chest). The pattern was photographed in the Cocoa Browns colorway of Colourmix, though the yarn is available in multiple colorways. Knitting needles required are 5mm (US 8) circular needles in three different lengths to accommodate the construction process. The tension is established at 16 stitches and 27 rows per round to 10 centimeters, measured over the rib pattern using 5mm needles. Achieving proper tension is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements and garment fit.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond the beginner level. The seamless construction and circular needle work require comfort with in-the-round knitting techniques, while the shoulder shaping and pattern maintenance demand attention to detail and familiarity with decrease techniques.