Ottavia Shawl

Ottavia Shawl by Kourtney Robinson

What Is Being Made

The Ottavia Shawl is a geometric knitted wrap designed by Kourtney Robinson and presented by Dollybird Workshop. This intermediate-level project creates a versatile accessory that functions as both a small cape and a generous shawl or scarf. The shawl's structured shaping ensures it stays securely in place when worn, making it practical for everyday use or special occasions. The name "Ottavia" references both a common Italian name and the Italian word meaning "eighth," connecting to the shawl's geometric construction based on five eighths of an octagon.

Design and Construction Technique

The Ottavia Shawl employs a distinctive geometric approach to shawl construction. Rather than working in the round or from a simple triangular base, this design utilizes five eighths of an octagon as its foundational shape. This mathematical approach to shawl architecture creates a garment with superior drape and structure compared to traditional triangular shawls. The octagonal geometry provides eight-sided symmetry, which contributes to the shawl's elegant proportions and its ability to sit securely on the shoulders without constant adjustment.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Ottavia Shawl features a geometric leaf lace pattern as its primary decorative element. This lace motif is integrated throughout the design to create visual interest while maintaining the structural integrity of the octagonal shape. The combination of lace patterning with the geometric construction allows for a balance between delicate, openwork sections and more solid fabric areas, resulting in a shawl that is both visually striking and functionally warm.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern provides specifications for two colorway options, each utilizing different yarn bases:

• Orange Version: Curious Creek Fibers "Oban" yarn in the colorway Autumn In New York. This yarn is composed of 50% superwash merino wool and 50% silk, offering a luxurious blend. Each skein contains 187 meters or 205 yards and weighs 95 grams or 3.35 ounces. The project requires 3 skeins total.
• Purple Version: Tanis Fiber Arts "Green Label Aran Weight" yarn in the colorway Dove. This yarn is 100% superwash merino wool, providing a pure wool alternative. Each skein contains 187 meters or 205 yards and weighs 115 grams or 4.06 ounces. The project also requires 3 skeins total.

Needles and Notions

The Ottavia Shawl is worked on a 5.0mm circular needle in US size #8, with a finished length of 80 centimeters or 32 inches. The pattern requires multiple stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping increases: specifically 2 Style "A" markers, 8 Style "B" markers, and 5 Style "C" markers. Additional finishing materials include a darning needle for weaving in ends and blocking wires with stainless steel pins (glass-headed or "T" style) for shaping the finished piece.

Gauge

The working gauge for the Ottavia Shawl is 18 stitches and 26 rows per 4 inches when measured over the stitch pattern. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements and ensuring the shawl's geometric proportions are accurate.

Skill Level

Rated as an intermediate project, the Ottavia Shawl is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle more complex pattern work. The geometric leaf lace pattern and the octagonal construction method require comfort with reading lace charts, managing multiple stitch markers, and understanding shaping techniques. Knitters should be familiar with basic lace stitches and increases before beginning this project.