Shawls in King Cole Opium DK - 4830 - Downloadable PDF

Shawls Knitted in King Cole Opium DK

What is Being Made

This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for knitting elegant shawls using King Cole Opium DK yarn. The pattern includes designs in two size options: one measuring 42 x 152 cm (16½ x 60 inches) and another measuring 37 x 150 cm (14½ x 59 inches). These generous dimensions create versatile shawls suitable for layering or draping.

Yarn and Materials

The shawls are specifically designed to be knitted in King Cole Opium DK, a distinctive chunky-weight yarn characterized by its unique thick and thin texture. This textured yarn creates visual interest and dimension in the finished fabric. The pattern notes that cast-on and off stitches should be made from the thin part of the yarn to ensure loose, manageable edges. Appropriate knitting needles for DK-weight yarn are required, though specific needle sizes are detailed within the pattern documentation.

Techniques and Stitches

These shawls employ fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The construction utilizes classic stitch work including:

• Knit stitch (k) – the primary stitch forming the fabric base
• Purl stitch (p) – used to create textural variation
• Yarn forward (yfwd) – creates decorative eyelet holes and lace elements throughout the design
• Slip stitch (s1) – used for edge finishing and stitch manipulation
• Pass slipped stitch over (psso) – creates decreases and shaping details

The pattern incorporates yarn forward increases as a primary design element, creating openwork sections that add elegance and drape to the finished shawl. Rows alternate between patterned sections featuring yarn forwards and plain knit rows that allow the textured yarn to showcase its natural characteristics.

Pattern Construction

The shawl pattern follows a structured row-by-row sequence with specific tension requirements outlined at the beginning of each design section. Achieving the correct tension is essential for obtaining the specified finished dimensions. The pattern uses standard knitting abbreviations and includes clear instructions for continuing established patterns, repeating stitch sequences, and managing the yarn overs that create the shawl's decorative elements.

Finishing instructions recommend pinning the completed shawl to the stated measurements and blocking with clean, damp tea towels until fully dry, which helps set the drape and shape characteristic of lace-patterned shawls.

About This Pattern

This is a downloadable PDF pattern from King Cole. For every pattern purchased, a donation is made to the Pink Ribbon Foundation, combining crafting with charitable support.