Cardinal Wrap

Cardinal Wrap by Skeinsnsticks Designs

Project Overview

The Cardinal Wrap is a crocheted shawl designed by Skeinsnsticks Designs, inspired by the musical composition and stylistic diversity of Prince's "Diamonds and Pearls." Like the song's blend of funk, rock, and pop elements, this wrap combines multiple crochet techniques to create a visually dynamic piece that engages the eye through varied stitch work and texture.

What Is Being Made

The Cardinal Wrap is a rectangular shawl measuring 18 inches wide by 80 inches long, making it a versatile accessory suitable for draping, wrapping, or wearing as a statement piece. The finished dimensions create an elongated silhouette ideal for layering or elegant evening wear.

Crochet Techniques and Stitches Used

This intermediate-level crochet project demonstrates a thoughtful combination of foundational and more advanced techniques:

• Double Crochet: The primary stitch used throughout the wrap, providing structure and drape to the finished piece
• Chain Stitches: Used for foundation and as connecting elements within the stitch pattern
• Popcorn Stitch: A more complex textural element incorporated into the design to create visual interest and dimension
• Linked First Double Crochet (Linked first-dc): A specialized technique detailed in the stitch guide that involves pulling the loop on the hook slightly taller than normal, chaining 1, and inserting the hook into the bottom bump of the first chain for a refined edge treatment

The pattern repeat measures 18 inches wide by 5 inches in height within the stitch pattern, creating a balanced, repeatable design element across the wrap's length.

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: Harrisville Designs Silk & Wool, a premium blend consisting of 50% silk and 50% fine wool. This yarn weight is classified as DK (double knitting), providing a refined drape and luxurious feel. Each skein contains 175 yards (160.2 meters) and weighs 1.75 ounces (50 grams). The project requires 8 hanks, totaling approximately 1,400 yards of yarn. The recommended colorway is #214, Canyon, which provides a sophisticated neutral base.

Hook: Size G/7 (4.5 mm) crochet hook is specified for this project. Crocheters are advised to adjust hook size as necessary to obtain the correct gauge, as individual tension variations may require accommodation.

Notions: A yarn needle is required for weaving in ends and finishing the completed wrap.

Gauge and Difficulty Level

The gauge for this project is 1 pattern repeat equals 18 inches by 5 inches in the stitch pattern. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished dimensions. This project is rated as intermediate difficulty, suitable for crocheters who have mastered basic stitches and are ready to incorporate more complex techniques like the popcorn stitch and specialized edge treatments into their work.