British Wool - Cobden - Bordeaux

The unmistakable geometric patterns of the Fair Isle jumper have become a symbol of British culture and has long been a favourite of the Royal Family dating back to the 1920s. While there are many brands touting Fair Isle jumpers, Mars is proud to have designed, developed, and manufactured the world's first seamless Fair Isle jumper in 100% British Wool.

British Wool - Cobden - Bordeaux

Product Spec

in cm

Model Information 

Fair Isle

The Fair Isle sweater has a rich history rooted in the Scottish Isle of Fair Isle, which is part of the Shetland Islands. This knitting style dates back to the 16th century and is characterised by its use of intricate patterns and multiple colours.

Fair Isle knitting originally involved using a basic technique where patterns are created by alternating between two or more colours in a single row, often forming geometric shapes and motifs like diamonds, stars, and zigzags. This technique was well-suited to the harsh weather conditions of the Shetland Islands, providing warmth and durability for those living and working there.

The distinctive patterns of Fair Isle sweaters often incorporate traditional motifs and are knitted in a circular fashion, which helps in minimising the number of seams and ensures a snug fit. Over time, these sweaters gained popularity beyond the Shetland Islands, becoming a fashion statement and a symbol of artisanal craftsmanship.

In the early 20th century, the Fair Isle sweater's popularity spread beyond its local origins, thanks in part to the efforts of designers and fashion icons who embraced and showcased its unique aesthetic. Today, Fair Isle sweaters are celebrated for their beautiful patterns and are considered a classic piece of knitwear in the fashion world.

Seamless Knitting

Seamless knitting, Knit & Wear, or 3D Knitting refer to knitting a garment entirely on a machine without the need to any panels post knit. The huge benefit here being consistency in every garment along with not having seams along the sides or shoulders or neck line. 

Seamless knitting requires a expert level of yarn and it's limits, along with proficiency in knitwear development. The garment complexity does mean the machines do all the heavy lifting but many manufacturers aren't able to produce seamless garments because of the immense learning curve.

Our Martians, through years of development, investment in the latest machines, and a span of designs are proud to be the first to produce a seamless Fair Isle jumper in 100% British Wool.

Design & Development

Perfecting the design was not an easy task primarily because the Cobden is seamlessly knitted. Additionally, British Wool has some interesting characteristics that meant adapting the seamless knitting process. 

Once a design has been fleshed out to correspond with the overall aesthetic, it needs to be knitted and washed using our proprietary seamless washing technique. Amendments can only be done after this laborious process. 

British Wool

British Wool has a long and storied history, integral to the UK's agricultural and economic heritage. Dating back to ancient times, wool production became particularly significant during the medieval period when it was a major export and a key economic driver. Today, British Wool is produced from various sheep breeds, each offering distinct wool qualities ranging from soft and fine to coarse and durable.

The wool industry in Britain involves both small family farms and larger commercial operations. After shearing, the wool is cleaned, carded, and spun into yarn, used in a variety of products from clothing to carpets. The British Wool organisation supports producers, promotes the wool, and ensures fair pricing, contributing to the industry's sustainability and quality.

British Wool is valued for its environmental benefits, as it is a natural, biodegradable fibre. It also maintains cultural significance, being central to traditional British crafts like knitting and weaving. Overall, British Wool stands out for its historical importance, versatility, and role in sustainable textile practices.

Richard Cobden

The Cobden takes it's name from Mars Knitwear's humble beginnings in Cobden House, Leicester. We thought it only fitting that being the first company to manufacture a seamless Fair Isle British Wool jumper, we remember our beginnings. 

Richard Cobden, a key Manchester statesman and politician, moved to the city in 1832 to manage a calico printing factory. He quickly became a leading radical, purchasing a house in 1836, the same year he was elected to the Manchester Chamber of Commerce. Cobden's notable campaign for the repeal of the Corn Laws began there.

He also successfully advocated for Manchester's city incorporation in 1838. Elected MP for Stockport in 1841, he was celebrated for his persuasive speaking and achieved the repeal of the Corn Laws in 1846. Cobden’s contributions were honored with a significant public subscription, and despite declining health, he sold his house in 1850 to Messrs George Faulkener and Stephen Heelis.