Per Se

Per Se Shawl by Knitdraper

What Is Being Made

Per Se is a hand-knitted shawl designed to showcase hand-dyed yarn with striking visual impact. The finished shawl measures 80 x 21.5 inches, making it a generous accessory suitable for wrapping and layering. This design is particularly well-suited for showcasing the color variations and depth of hand-dyed yarns, as the pattern structure allows the yarn's natural beauty to become the focal point of the finished piece.

Stitch Pattern and Design Elements

The shawl features a thoughtfully constructed stitch pattern that combines simplicity with visual interest. A basic stockinette stitch field forms the foundation, creating a smooth, classic texture that serves as a neutral backdrop. Over this stockinette base, a gentle wave pattern emerges, adding subtle dimensionality without overwhelming the design. The pattern incorporates contrasting color stripes that enhance the wave effect and create visual rhythm throughout the piece.

A distinctive design feature distinguishes the upper section: cleverly positioned vertical spindles provide a unique focal point that draws the eye and adds architectural interest to the shawl. These spindles are created through the stitch pattern itself, offering a sophisticated design element that sets this shawl apart from simpler constructions.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches Used

Per Se is worked using fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for an intermediate skill level. The pattern employs the following essential stitches and techniques:

• Knit stitch (k): The primary stitch forming the stockinette base
• Purl 2 together (p2tog): A decrease technique used to shape the pattern and create the wave effect
• Yarn over (yo): Used to create openwork elements and lace-like details within the wave pattern
• Slip marker (sm): Stitch markers help track pattern repeats and shaping sections
• Place marker (pm): Markers are positioned at key points to guide the knitter through the vertical spindle sections and pattern transitions

The pattern begins with a long-tail cast-on of 60 stitches, establishing the foundation for the shawl's width. The intermediate difficulty level reflects the combination of basic stitches with the more complex spatial arrangement required to execute the vertical spindles and maintain the wave pattern across the full width.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Per Se is designed to be worked in worsted-weight yarn, specifically using Malabrigo Rios, a 100% superwash merino yarn. The pattern calls for two contrasting colors: Color A (Plomo) and Color B (Glazed Carrot). The yardage requirements are 630 yards of Color A (3 skeins at 210 yards per 100 grams each) and 210 yards of Color B (1 skein), for a total of 840 yards needed to complete the shawl.

The knitting is worked on US 7/4.5 mm circular needles, which are appropriate for the worsted-weight yarn and create the correct gauge for the finished dimensions. The specified gauge is 16 stitches and 24 rows per 4 inches when worked in stockinette stitch, which is typical for worsted-weight yarn at this needle size. Additional supplies include stitch markers to track pattern sections, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and optionally a crochet hook for the bind-off edge, offering flexibility in finishing techniques.

Why This Pattern Works for Hand-Dyed Yarn

The Per Se design is specifically conceived to celebrate hand-dyed yarns. The combination of stockinette stitch fields with subtle wave patterning allows color variations to remain visible and prominent rather than being obscured by complex stitch textures. The contrasting color stripes add intentional visual breaks that enhance rather than compete with the yarn's natural color variations. This thoughtful design approach ensures that the investment in premium hand-dyed yarn is fully appreciated in the finished shawl.