Breacan Wrap

Breacan Wrap by K.M. Bedigan

What is Being Made

The Breacan Wrap is a cosy, oversized knitted wrap designed to provide warmth during colder months. Inspired by tartan patterns and colours, this wrap combines both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. The name "Breacan" comes from the Gaelic word meaning tartan or plaid, translating literally as 'chequered', 'variegated', or 'speckled'. The wrap measures 61 inches (155 cm) long by 22 inches (56 cm) wide without fringe, and extends to 69 inches (175 cm) long when fringe is included. It comes in one size as written.

Construction and Techniques

This wrap is constructed using the double-knit technique, which creates a fabric that is fully reversible. One of the distinctive features of double-knit construction is that the wrong side displays the main colour (MC) and contrast colour (CC) inverted compared to the right side, creating visual interest from both angles. The double-knit method produces a dense, durable fabric with excellent drape and warmth retention, making it ideal for a wrap intended to provide comfort on chilly days.

The pattern includes a brief history of tartan on page 9, providing context and cultural background for the design inspiration. Two colour options are provided within the pattern, allowing knitters to choose their preferred tartan-inspired palette.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch structure is double-knit stockinette stitch, which forms the foundation of this wrap. This stitch creates a smooth, refined surface and is worked at a gauge of 18 stitch pairs over 24 rows, measuring 4 inches in the double-knit stockinette stitch.

Materials Required

The following tools and materials are needed to complete the Breacan Wrap:

• 4-ply weight yarn in two colours (main colour and contrast colour)
• 4.5mm / US 7 knitting needles for main fabric construction
• 4mm / US 6 crochet hook or smaller (for finishing details such as fringe)
• Four stitch markers (locking or removable type, or waste yarn)
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and finishing

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as advanced, reflecting the complexity of double-knit construction and the precision required to maintain even tension across two colours simultaneously. Knitters undertaking this project should have solid foundational skills and experience with multi-colour knitting techniques.