Marnie Plus - lacy rib jacket

Marnie Plus Lacy Rib Jacket by Jennifer Lee

Garment Overview

The Marnie Plus is a sophisticated plus-size V-neck jacket designed for intermediate knitters. This elegant cardigan features a lacy rib pattern throughout, with elbow-length set-in sleeves and a streamlined silhouette. The garment fastens with a single hook and eye closure, offering a refined, minimalist finish. Available in sizes 2XL through 5XL, with bust measurements ranging from 120cm to 150cm (47¼ to 59 inches), the Marnie Plus accommodates a wide range of body types while maintaining a flattering, tailored appearance.

Construction Method

This knitting pattern employs an efficient one-piece construction technique for the body, which is worked continuously from the lower edge up to the armholes. This approach significantly reduces the amount of seaming required during finishing, as the body pieces are not separated. A particular advantage of this method is that the lacy rib pattern flows seamlessly without interruption from seams, creating a cohesive visual design across the front and back of the jacket. The set-in sleeves are worked separately and then attached to the armholes, a classic shaping technique that provides a professional, fitted appearance at the shoulder.

Stitches and Pattern Details

The Marnie Plus is worked primarily in a lacy rib stitch pattern, which combines the vertical lines of ribbing with openwork lace elements. This stitch pattern creates visual interest and texture while maintaining the structure necessary for a fitted jacket. The lacy rib pattern is worked over the body and sleeves, providing both aesthetic appeal and subtle drape. The V-neck shaping is integrated into the pattern, allowing the lacy design to frame the neckline elegantly.

Sizing and Fit

• Size 2XL: Bust 120cm (47¼ inches); garment width 127cm (50 inches); length approximately 55cm (21¾ inches)
• Size 3XL: Bust 130cm (51¼ inches); garment width 137cm (54 inches); length approximately 56cm (22 inches)
• Size 4XL: Bust 140cm (55 inches); garment width 147cm (58 inches); length approximately 57cm (22½ inches)
• Size 5XL: Bust 150cm (59 inches); garment width 157cm (62 inches); length approximately 58cm (22¾ inches)

All sizes feature elbow-length sleeves measuring 18cm (7 inches) in length, providing a classic three-quarter sleeve proportion.

Materials Required

The Marnie Plus is designed to be worked in DK weight yarn. The pattern calls for 4 to 5 balls of Lincraft Winter Warmth (50g balls per ball), with yardage requirements varying slightly depending on the size selected and individual knitting tension. Knitters should note that yarn quantities may vary based on personal knitting style and the specific yarn chosen, as different yarn brands and fiber content can affect yardage coverage.

Tools and Notions

• Needles: A pair of 4.00mm (UK size 8, US size 6) straight knitting needles for working the sleeves and other components
• Circular Needle: A 4.00mm (UK size 8, US size 6) circular knitting needle, 80cm (31½ inches) or longer, for working the body in the round or in rows
• Notions: A stitch holder for holding stitches during construction, a wool needle for sewing seams and weaving in ends, and one hook and eye closure for fastening the jacket

Tension and Gauge

Achieving the correct tension is essential for proper fit. The pattern specifies a tension of 25.5 stitches and 27 rows to 10cm (4 inches) measured over the lacy rib pattern using 4.00mm needles. Knitters should knit a tension swatch before beginning the project to ensure their gauge matches the pattern specifications, as variations in tension can significantly affect the finished garment dimensions.

Skill Level

Rated as intermediate, the Marnie Plus is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are comfortable working lace patterns, managing shaping, and assembling garment pieces. The one-piece body construction reduces complexity in some areas, while the lacy rib