Panoramic Stole

Panoramic Stole by Hannah Fettig of KnitBot

What Is Being Made

The Panoramic Stole is a substantial knitted shawl designed as a long, dramatic layering piece. With finished measurements of approximately 80 inches in length and 19 inches in width, this stole offers generous coverage while maintaining an elegant drape suitable for adding subtle drama to any outfit.

Design Features and Construction

This mesh lace stole incorporates short row shaping throughout its construction to create visual interest and enhance the natural curve of the finished piece. The strategic placement of short rows prevents the design from becoming monotonous while maintaining the structural integrity needed for a substantial accessory. The combination of lace and garter stitch creates a balanced aesthetic that works well as both a functional layer and a fashion statement.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Short row shaping: Creates subtle contouring and adds dimension to the stole's structure
• Mesh lace construction: Produces an open, airy fabric with visual appeal
• Garter stitch: Provides textural contrast and stability within the lace sections
• Wet blocking: Final finishing technique that sets the stole to measurements and enhances the natural curve created by short rows

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Panoramic Stole uses two primary stitch patterns that work together throughout the piece:

• Short Row Garter Stitch pattern: Worked over 24 rows and repeated multiple times as the foundation of the design
• Mesh pattern: Worked over 4 rows and repeated 19 times between each garter stitch section

These patterns alternate in a specific sequence: the Short Row Garter Stitch pattern and Mesh pattern combination is repeated 6 times total, with a final Short Row Garter Stitch pattern worked once more before binding off.

Materials and Yarn Weight

The Panoramic Stole is designed for fingering weight yarn, which falls into the 3-ply and 4-ply yarn weight categories. The pattern provides flexibility in yarn selection:

• Recommended yarn: 2 skeins of Swans Island Fingering (100% Organic Merino; 525 yards per skein, 480 meters per skein)
• Alternative yarns: 1000 yards of fingering weight yarn such as The Fibre Company Canopy Fingering or Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light

Total yardage required is approximately 1000 yards, allowing knitters to choose from premium fingering weight options that suit their preferences and budget.

Tools and Gauge

This intermediate-level project requires US 6 (4mm) circular needles measuring 24 inches or longer, along with a tapestry needle for weaving in ends during finishing. The working gauge is 19½ stitches and 33 rows per 4 inches when measured in the mesh stitch pattern, which helps determine the final dimensions of the completed stole.

Skill Level

Rated as an intermediate difficulty project, the Panoramic Stole is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to work with lace patterns and short row shaping techniques. The combination of mesh lace and garter stitch, along with the strategic use of short rows, provides a satisfying challenge without requiring advanced techniques.