Moongazing

Moongazing Shawl by Larissa Brown

What is Being Made

Moongazing is an intermediate-level knitted shawl designed by Larissa Brown. This triangular shawl features a generous wingspan of 70 inches (178 cm) with a center depth of approximately 30 inches (76 cm). The shawl is constructed using a color fade technique that transitions through five distinct colors of DK-weight yarn, creating a visually striking gradient effect as you work from the cast-on edge through the completed piece.

Knitting Techniques

The shawl employs several fundamental knitting techniques suited to intermediate crafters. The construction begins with a cable cast-on (CCO), a technique that creates a sturdy, elastic edge ideal for shawl projects. The pattern incorporates eyelets in the initial sections, which are decorative openings that add visual interest and can be used for threading ribbon or simply as design elements. The main fabric is worked in Stockinette Stitch, the most common knit stitch that creates a smooth, classic appearance. Slip stitches are worked purlwise with yarn in front to maintain consistent edge definition throughout the project.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The pattern uses standard knitting abbreviations and fundamental stitches. Key stitches include slip 1 (Sl1) worked purlwise, cable cast-on for the foundation, and Stockinette Stitch as the primary fabric stitch. The shawl is structured in distinct sections, with Section #1 featuring eyelets worked in the first two colors. The pattern concludes with a bind-off (BO) to secure the final row and complete the shawl edge.

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Moongazing requires five colors of DK-weight yarn, with a minimum of 240 yards in each color. The designer recommends arranging colors from lightest (Color A) to darkest (Color E) to achieve an optimal fade effect. The sample shown uses Primrose Yarn Co in the colorways Jasper, Onesie #36, Dior, Seven Wonders, Cosmos, and Bramble. Note that you will have leftover yardage in several colors, making this an economical project for stash-busting or color experimentation.

Knitting needles should be US 8 or 9 (5.0 or 5.5 mm) to achieve the correct gauge of 14 stitches over 4 inches (10 cm) in blocked Stockinette Stitch. Additional tools needed include pins and blocking supplies to shape and finish the shawl, plus a large-eyed needle for weaving in yarn ends.

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 14 stitches equals 4 inches (10 cm) when measured in Stockinette Stitch on blocked fabric. Blocking is essential for this shawl project, as it sets the stitches and allows the shawl to reach its full wingspan dimensions while evening out the color transitions across the five-color fade.