CRUSHING ON: MARLO

It's sweater weather, so what better pattern to crush on than the Marlo Sweater?! It’s reached iconic status in the sewing community and is a project that seems to be loved by all who make it (one, two, three times!). Let's take a deep dive into what makes this pattern so special.

Reaching the bestsellers year after year in the sweater department, Marlo's allure is everlasting. The True Bias Marlo Sweater is oversized with a dropped shoulder, deep V-neck, wide bands and large buttons. View A is cropped length. View B has patch pockets and hits around mid thigh.

Sizing: US 0 – 18 with a C cup (approx. UK 8 – 20) or US 14 – 30 with a D cup (approx. UK 16 – 32).

Format: Paper, or PDF with printed pattern sheets if you need them. The PDF pattern comes with layers and projector files, for those who like to know!

Sewing level: Confident beginner

The main sweater can be sewn up in stretch or nonstretch fabric. The bindings require at least 20% stretch. You can use the same fabric for both or use a contrasting fabric for the bindings. Suggested fabrics include medium weight fabrics such as sweater knit, french terry, sweatshirting, polar fleece, rib knit and boucle.

Want to get more out of your Marlo pattern? Head over to the True Bias blog for instructions on how to hack the Marlo Sweater into a vest. It's a lovely layering piece that will add extra warmth to any outfit.

The popular Marlo Sweater has a mini iteration, so 2-10-year-olds can enjoy their own version of this cult classic. The Mini Marlo is a unisex, oversized sweater with a dropped shoulder, deep V-neck, wide bands, and large buttons with a choice of two lengths. Your little customer can choose the fabric of their dreams, so it will become their favourite cardigan!

If you like a little extra guidance for your projects, True Bias patterns are a great way to go! There is a full sewalong with step-by-step pictures on the blog if you find it helpful.

We mentioned Marlo is a community favourite, and the Fold Line reviewers are singing its praises. Why not have a read of the reviews before you add the Marlo Sweater to your cart to see if it's the project for you - and spoiler alert - it most likely is!

If you want to make an Marlo easier to sew, leave off the buttons like these reviewers! I have done this myself with a patterned fabric that felt like it didn't need anything else, and I love it!

If you are hunting for a cardigan with a closer fit, take a look at Brynn. Sister to the popular Marlo Cardigan, Brynn is giving us a completely different shape to add to our handmade wardrobe.

The fitted shape makes Brynn the main event and less of a layering piece which could be really useful during party season. There are loads of ways to make your cardigan - as a vest, dress, with short or long sleeves - you can really play around with this pattern.

Has that left you feeling ready to join the Marlo crew? This unmissable pattern is waiting for you to discover it and spread the word like our reviewers have!