My copy of Rowan Magazine No.77 arrived a couple of months ago, and although I was excited to receive it, I’ve been so busy I didn’t have time to sit down and go through it properly. I finally found some time to have a proper look, and I’m glad I did. There are some great designs in this issue — both in the “Lazy Days” collection and in the “Retrospective” section.
I’ve already started knitting Jonquille by Martin Storey. It’s a cropped, three-quarter-sleeved jumper worked in Summerlite 4ply, with three columns of hearts running up the front and back separated by diamond-shaped cables.
Jonquille by Martin Storey
The original length is quite short — more of a waist-skimming style — but I’m adding some extra length to mine. I don’t find cropped shapes very flattering on me as I am probably a bit too old for them now and I think this will work better as a longer piece on me. I haven’t decided yet whether I’ll keep the sleeves as written or make them longer too. The stitch pattern is clear and satisfying to work on. It’s complicated and I recommend knitting a tension square not just to obtain the correct tension but to get the hand of the pattern and it’s intricacies. The yarn, Summerlite 4ply is well-suited to the pattern. It’s smooth and lightweight, and it holds the heart and cable definition really well and giving a lovely soft fabric.
Mangosteen by Chloe Thurlow is another favourite. It’s a polo-style cropped tee, knitted in Summerlite DK using two colours.
Mangosteen by Chloe Thurlow
The all-over rib gives it structure, while the contrast stripe detail on the collar, cuffs and hem adds a sporty finish. It has set-in sleeves and a neat collar that leads into a short button placket. I like how polished it looks while still feeling casual.
Pomegranate, also by Chloe Thurlow, is a pretty lace sweater with a flattering, fitted shape, which is probably why I like it.
Pomegranate by Chloe Thurlow
It’s shaped at the waist and has set-in sleeves and a button fastening at the back neck. The lace pattern gives it a delicate, detailed look, but the overall style remains clean and wearable. Knitted in Summerlite 4ply, I think it’s something that could be worn to the office or out in the evening.
Saitama, from the Retrospective collection by Martin Storey, is a cropped, fitted cardigan knitted with Fine Lace and Kidsilk Haze held together throughout.
Saitama by Martin Storey
The lace patterning on the front and back contrasts with the three-quarter-sleeved stocking stitch sleeves, creating a simple but effective mix of texture. It’s a lightweight piece with a soft, slightly sheer finish — ideal for layering in cooler summer weather.
Overall, the designs that stood out to me in Magazine 77 are well-shaped and detailed without being overly complicated. There’s a nice mix of textures, from lace and cables to all-over rib, and the yarn choices — Summerlite 4ply, Summerlite DK, Fine Lace, and Kidsilk Haze — all feel right for the season. I’m still working on Jonquille, but a few of the others are strong contenders for what to cast on next.
You can take a look at all the designs from Rowan Magazine No.77 here.
Happy knitting!
Esther x
Hi Esther
How are you?
I’m knitting Rowan Mag 76, Bankside.
I’ve found the sleeves a bit odd: the shoulder seams are joined by knitting them together and then you knit from down to the cuffs. Anyway I’ll try it!
Helen Williams
Hi Helen, I’m very well, thank you – I hope you are too.
I’ve joined shoulder seams before by knitting them together. I first came across this technique in a top I made a few years ago using a ribbon-type yarn, and I really loved it. Since then, I’ve used it on other designs – even when it wasn’t specified in the pattern – as I’ll do anything to reduce the amount of sewing required!
Knitting the sleeves from the shoulder down to the cuffs is also a great approach, as it lets you get the sleeve length exactly right. I always struggle to get the length spot on when knitting from the cuff up to the shoulder.
Glad you’re still knitting!