Saxon Sweater in Rowan Denim Revive - ZB296-00001-DE - Downloadable PDF

Martin Storey Saxon Sweater in Rowan Denim Revive – Pattern Summary

About This Design

The Saxon Sweater is a classic knitted cardigan designed by Martin Storey and published by Rowan. Released as a downloadable PDF pattern (reference ZB296-00001-DE), this intermediate-level project delivers a timeless, structured silhouette with refined detailing. The design is photographed in Darkness 217, a deep, rich colourway that showcases the texture and stitch definition of the yarn beautifully.

What Is Being Made

The Saxon is a knitted cardigan featuring a structured front band, integrated patch pockets, and a classic fit. It is worked in separate pieces — back, left front, and right front — and then seamed together. The front bands are worked as part of the fronts rather than picked up separately, giving the garment a neat, polished finish. The pocket linings are knitted first and then set into the fronts at a specific point in the construction, adding both a functional and design element to the finished piece.

Sizes and Fit

The pattern is graded across six sizes, designed to fit bust measurements of 81–86, 91–97, 102–107, 112–117, 122–127, and 132–137 cm. The actual knitted bust measurement ranges from 101 cm to 150 cm, providing a comfortable, relaxed ease across all sizes. This generous range makes the Saxon an accessible choice for a wide variety of body types.

Techniques Used

• Flat knitting – all pieces are worked back and forth in rows on straight or circular needles
• Moss stitch (seed stitch) border – used for the lower hem ribbing alternative and the front button band, referred to in the pattern as Perlmuster (moss/seed stitch), creating a neat, non-rolling edge
• Stocking stitch (stockinette) – the main body fabric is worked in smooth stocking stitch for a clean, classic look
• Integrated front band – the 11-stitch moss stitch front border is worked simultaneously with the body, maintaining pattern continuity throughout
• Pocket placement and stitch holding – stitches are placed on a Hilfsnadel (stitch holder or spare needle) and replaced with pre-knitted pocket lining stitches, a technique that creates a seamlessly integrated pocket
• Needle size changes – the pattern transitions from smaller to larger needles at a defined point, a common technique to create a firmer, neater hem before moving into the more open body fabric
• Seaming and construction – individual pieces are joined using standard finishing techniques to complete the cardigan

Stitches Used

• Stocking stitch – knit on right side rows, purl on wrong side rows; forms the main body fabric
• Moss stitch (seed stitch / Perlmuster) – alternating knit and purl stitches worked so that knit stitches sit above purl stitches on every row; used for the front bands and lower borders

Yarn and Materials

The Saxon Sweater is knitted in Rowan Denim Revive, a DK weight yarn sold in 50 g balls. The quantity required ranges from 17 to 26 balls depending on the size chosen. The pattern is photographed in the shade Darkness 217. Rowan Denim Revive is a yarn with a denim-inspired aesthetic, making it an excellent choice for casual, everyday knitwear with a relaxed, lived-in character.

Needles Required

• 3.25 mm (UK 10 / US 3) knitting needles – used for the moss stitch borders and hems
• 3.75 mm (UK 9 / US 5) knitting needles – used for the main body in stocking stitch
• A spare needle or stitch holder is also required for the