Flint Hill Shawl

Flint Hill Shawl by Danielle Chalson

Project Overview

The Flint Hill Shawl is a classic triangular wrap designed by independent designer Danielle Chalson. This knitted shawl combines multiple stitch techniques to create a sophisticated accessory suitable for all seasons. The finished shawl measures at least 62 inches (157.5 cm) wide along the neck edge and at least 35½ inches (90.25 cm) deep, making it a generous wrap that provides both warmth and elegant drape.

Techniques and Stitch Patterns

This intermediate-level knitting pattern showcases a thoughtful combination of three distinct textural elements. The design features lace, cables, and ribbing worked together in a cohesive composition. The cable work includes two different cable patterns: a traditional smaller cable and a larger cable with a more organic quality. The lace elements are particularly noteworthy, as they feature eyelets that echo a delicate clover lace pattern throughout the body of the shawl. This interplay between structured cables and airy lace creates visual interest and textural variety that makes the finished piece work beautifully across different seasons and occasions.

Yarn and Materials

The Flint Hill Shawl is designed to be worked in fingering weight yarn, which is a fine yarn weight that allows for intricate stitch definition. The pattern requires approximately 700 yards (640 meters) of yarn. The sample shown was knitted in Catskill Merino Fingering, a 100% Merino wool yarn that provides 225 yards (206 meters) per approximately 56 grams (2 ounces). The sample colorway used is "Clover."

The designer recommends choosing a smoothly spun fingering-weight yarn in either a solid or mostly-solid colorway to allow the stitch patterns to be clearly visible and appreciated. This yarn choice ensures that the interplay between the cable patterns and lace elements is not obscured by variegation or texture variation in the yarn itself.

Tools and Notions

• US 6 (4.0 mm) circular needle, 24 inches (60 cm) length, or size needed to obtain gauge
• Three stitch markers
• Cable needle for working cable stitches
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends

Gauge

Proper gauge is essential for achieving the correct finished measurements. The pattern specifies two different gauges depending on the stitch pattern being worked:

• 21 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in the Clover pattern, after blocking
• 11 stitches and 16 rows over 1½ inches (3.75 cm) wide and 2¼ inches (5.75 cm) high in the S pattern

Blocking is an important finishing step for this shawl, as it helps set the stitch patterns and ensures the finished measurements are accurate.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters who have experience with basic stitches and are ready to tackle more complex stitch patterns. Familiarity with cable knitting, lace techniques, and working with stitch markers will be helpful for successfully completing this project.