Days Ahead Shawl

Days Ahead Shawl by Natalya1905

What Is Being Made

The Days Ahead Shawl is a cozy, snuggly triangle shawl designed for knitters seeking an intermediate-level project. This shawl features a striking colorwork design incorporating three distinct shades of yarn that work together harmoniously. The shawl is constructed by working two panels side by side, progressing from the tip at the center to the wide base, creating a versatile accessory suitable for layering and everyday wear.

Knitting Techniques

This pattern employs several essential knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters. The shawl utilizes decreasing methods including k2tog (knit 2 stitches together) and k3tog (knit 3 stitches together) to shape the triangular silhouette. The pattern incorporates slip stitch techniques, including ssk (slip, slip, knit) decreases and standard slip stitches, often worked through the back loop for refined edges. The triple selvage (TS) technique is featured to create clean, finished side edges. Additionally, the pattern uses yarn overs (yo) to create decorative lace elements and shaping throughout the design.

Stitches Used

• Knit (k) – the fundamental stitch forming the base fabric
• Purl (p) – used to create textural variation
• Knit 2 together (k2tog) – a right-leaning decrease
• Knit 3 together (k3tog) – a more pronounced decrease for shaping
• Slip, slip, knit (ssk) – a left-leaning decrease
• Slip stitch (sl) – often worked through the back loop (tbl) for edge definition
• Yarn over (yo) – creates openwork and lace patterning
• Triple selvage (TS) – a specialized edge technique for polished finishing

Yarn and Materials

The Days Ahead Shawl requires approximately 1142 yards (1045 meters) of yarn totaling 11.05 ounces (314 grams). The pattern calls for #1 fingering weight yarn worked across three coordinating colors:

• Color A (Taupe) – 712 yards / 652 meters (approximately 7 ounces / 200 grams)
• Color B (Cream) – 230 yards / 210 meters (approximately 2¼ ounces / 64 grams)
• Color C (Grey) – 200 yards / 183 meters (approximately 1.8 ounces / 50 grams)

The featured yarn is Highland Superwash Sock Twist by Cloudborn Fibers, a practical choice offering machine-washable properties ideal for a frequently-worn shawl. Fingering weight yarn is a fine, delicate yarn category that allows for intricate stitch definition and creates an elegant drape characteristic of quality shawlettes.

Skill Level

Rated as Intermediate, this pattern assumes knitters have solid foundational skills including comfort with decreases, yarn overs, and reading pattern repeats. The side-by-side panel construction and multi-color work provide engaging complexity without overwhelming newer knitters.