Begin

Begin Shawl by Helen Kennedy Designs

Project Overview

Begin is an asymmetrical knitted shawl designed by Helen Kennedy. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a striking triangular wrap measuring approximately 83 inches (211 cm) along the longest edge and 22 inches (56 cm) at the deepest point. The design draws inspiration from winter dawns, where contrasting colors blend to create a dynamic visual effect reminiscent of light breaking across a darkening sky.

Construction Method and Direction

The shawl is knitted from the point upward, beginning with a small number of cast-on stitches at the tip and expanding toward the broad upper edge. This top-down construction method allows for easy customization of the finished size by continuing to knit until the desired dimensions are achieved. The asymmetrical shape is created through strategic placement of increases at the edges and decreases along the spine, which runs through the center of the shawl.

Stitches and Techniques

Begin employs several fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate crafters:

• Garter stitch forms the primary fabric structure, creating a textured, reversible surface that works beautifully in this two-color design
• Spine stitch creates a decorative central line running from point to broad edge, adding visual definition to the asymmetrical shape
• Slipped stitches are incorporated strategically throughout to enhance the patterned effect and create subtle texture variation
• Increases and decreases at the edges shape the asymmetrical silhouette while maintaining structural integrity

Color Work and Design

The shawl features two highly contrasting colors that work together to create the dramatic effect. The main color (MC) is a multi-colored pink yarn, while the contrasting color (CC) is a deep purple. The interplay between these two colors, combined with the slipped stitch technique, produces a patterned visual effect that echoes the imagery of dawn light breaking through dark clouds.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

This pattern is designed for sock weight yarn, which is a fine 3-ply or 4-ply yarn weight. The recommended yarn is Mothy and the Squid, with the following specifications:

• Main Color (MC): 390 meters / 427 yards in sock weight, shown in Mothy and the Squid "That's Enough Crazy" (pink multi)
• Contrasting Color (CC): 390 meters / 427 yards in sock weight, shown in Mothy and the Squid "Intense Iris" (deep purple)
• Needles: 3.75 mm (US 5) needles for working the sock weight yarn at the appropriate gauge

Skill Level

Rated as intermediate difficulty, Begin is suitable for knitters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to work with two colors and decorative techniques like slipped stitches. The garter stitch base makes this project forgiving, while the color work and shaping provide engaging challenges that build technical skills.

Format

This pattern is available as a downloadable PDF, making it easy to reference while knitting and allowing crafters to print the instructions for convenient pattern consultation at the needles.