Outside the Lines

Outside the Lines Shawl by Afifa Knits Designs

Project Overview

Outside the Lines is an intermediate-level knitted shawl designed by Afifa Knits Designs. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a triangular shawl with a wingspan of approximately 24 inches and a depth of 106 inches, making it an elegant accessory piece suitable for various occasions. The design philosophy embraces asymmetrical construction with a fresh, graphic aesthetic—taking traditional shawl-making techniques and presenting them with a modern, slightly unconventional approach.

Design Characteristics

The shawl features an asymmetrical but perfectly weighted construction that combines geometric elements with thoughtful color work. The pattern encourages creative expression, allowing knitters to "color outside the lines" by incorporating color changes and strategic stitch placement. The design uses a two-pillar construction method, with the second pillar introducing color blocking and stitch crossing techniques that create visual interest and dimension.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

• Stockinette Stitch: The primary stitch structure, worked in flat rows to create a smooth, classic fabric base
• Yarn Forward Increases (kfb): Used strategically to shape the shawl's triangular form and create graduated increases
• Slip Stitches (sl1wyif): Slip stitches worked with yarn in front create clean, finished edges throughout the pattern
• Color Work and Stitch Crossing: The second pillar incorporates color changes and crossing stitches with contrasting colors, adding graphic visual elements to the finished piece
• Multi-Color Knitting: The pattern uses two distinct colorways (C1 and C2) worked simultaneously in sections, requiring color management and stitch coordination

Materials and Specifications

Yarn Requirements: Approximately 700 yards of 4-ply weight yarn. The sample shown uses Anzula Silken, a luxury blend composed of 50% superwash merino wool and 50% tussah silk. This fiber combination provides softness, drape, and subtle sheen appropriate for a finished shawl garment.

Colorways Available: The pattern offers multiple colorway options including Temperance, C1, C2, and Grape, allowing knitters to customize their finished piece.

Tools Required: US size 6 (4.0 mm) knitting needles for the main fabric, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and finishing.

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches by 32 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch, measured after blocking. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished dimensions of a 24-inch wingspan and 106-inch depth. Blocking the completed shawl will help even out stitches and enhance the drape of the finished piece.

Skill Level and Construction

Rated as intermediate difficulty, this pattern assumes knitters have solid foundational skills including comfortable stitch work, understanding of increases and decreases, and familiarity with color work techniques. The asymmetrical design and multi-color sections require attention to pattern instructions and color changes, making it an engaging project for experienced knitters seeking a moderately challenging design.