Travelers Shawl

Travelers Shawl by Hanks And Needles

Project Overview

The Travelers Shawl is an intermediate-level knit design that transforms a cable motif into a larger, flowing triangular wrap. Inspired by its cowl version, this shawl scales up the cable combination to create a garment with graceful drape and sophisticated construction. Available in two finished sizes—50"/127 cm and 61"/155 cm wingspan—the design accommodates different preferences while maintaining the same fundamental stitch pattern and techniques.

What Is Being Made

This is a triangular shawl designed to be worn as a wrap or shoulder piece. The two available sizes offer flexibility: the smaller version measures 50"/127 cm wingspan by 24"/61 cm depth, while the larger version spans 61"/155 cm by 32"/81 cm depth. The shawl features an I-cord edge that frames the perimeter, adding a refined, finished appearance to the piece.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Cable knitting: The primary design element, worked at a larger scale than the original cowl inspiration to create visual impact and texture
• I-cord edging: Created by slipping the last 3 stitches with yarn in front at the end of every row, producing a neat, professional border
• Stockinette stitch sections: Used as the base fabric between cable repeats, providing contrast and allowing the cables to stand out
• Adjustable construction: The shawl can be customized by increasing or decreasing the number of Stockinette Stitches, allowing knitters to modify the finished size beyond the two provided options
• I-cord bind off: Completes the edge with a consistent, polished finish

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch: Forms the main fabric body and creates a smooth canvas for the cable pattern
• Cable stitches: The defining stitch pattern, worked in repeats across the shawl width
• I-cord: A three-stitch cord technique used for both the edge and bind-off method

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: The pattern calls for Less Traveled Yarn from the Enchantment Collection in sport weight. The yarn composition is 80% superwash merino wool and 20% nylon, providing durability and easy care. Each hank contains 328 yards/300 meters and weighs 3.5 ounces/100 grams. Knitters will need 2 hanks for the smaller size or 3 hanks for the larger size. The sample shown uses the colorway Belladonna.

Needles and Tools: Construction requires a US 5/3.75mm circular needle measuring at least 32"/80cm in length. A cable needle is essential for working the cable stitches. While optional, a stitch marker helps track pattern repeats and increases. A tapestry needle is needed for weaving in ends after completion.

Gauge Information

Accurate gauge is important for achieving the intended finished dimensions. When measured in Stockinette Stitch and unblocked, the gauge is 24 stitches by 32 rows per 4"/10cm square. The cable repeat section has a different gauge: 42 stitches by 16 rows measures 4.75"/12cm wide by 2"/5cm tall. Knitters should swatch both stitch patterns to ensure proper tension before beginning the full project.

Design Details

The Travelers Shawl demonstrates how a single cable motif can be scaled and adapted across different projects. By taking the cable combination from the smaller cowl version and enlarging it for a full shawl, the designer created a piece with substantial visual presence and elegant movement. The inclusion of adjustable Stockinette Stitch sections allows knitters to customize the width and depth, making this pattern flexible for individual preferences and yarn availability.