Questa

Questa Sideways Shawlette by Corrine Walcher

What Is Being Made

Questa is a sideways shawlette designed as a versatile, stash-friendly knitting project. Named after a beautiful location in the mountains of New Mexico, this shawlette measures 17x66 inches when gently wet blocked. The design is engineered to use most of your skein efficiently through a strategic increase-and-decrease construction method.

Design and Construction Method

This shawlette employs a unique sideways knitting technique that allows crafters to customize yarn usage. The pattern is knit from one end to the other in a single direction. The construction divides into two distinct phases: an increase portion followed by a decrease portion. To execute this design properly, knitters weigh their yarn at the beginning of the project and knit the increase section until approximately half the yarn weight is consumed, then transition to the decrease section to complete the shawlette. This method ensures that the finished piece uses nearly the entire skein, making Questa an excellent choice for minimizing yarn waste.

Stitches and Techniques

The primary stitch used in Questa is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric. The sideways construction is the defining technique of this pattern, allowing the shawlette to grow horizontally rather than from top to bottom. Wet blocking is essential to achieve the finished dimensions and proper drape of the completed shawlette.

Yarn and Needles

The sample shawlette was knit using Dragonfly Fibers Djinni yarn, a premium blend of 80% Superwash Merino, 10% Cashmere, and 10% Nylon, providing durability and softness. The sample used 420 yards per 4 ounces and was worked in the colorway Persephone. A 24-inch circular needle in size 6 US (4.00 mm) is recommended, though needle size may be adjusted to obtain desired gauge.

Gauge and Yarn Weight Flexibility

The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 stitches and 28 rows per 4 inches in wet-blocked stockinette. However, gauge is noted as not critical for this project, as variations will affect the drape and the amount of yarn consumed. Questa accommodates multiple yarn weights, including 3-ply, 4-ply, DK, and sport weight yarns, making it adaptable to various stash yarns. The sample used 103 grams of yarn. Knitters may work this shawl with any yarn at any gauge, providing significant flexibility for yarn substitution and customization.

Skill Level

Questa is rated as an intermediate knitting project, suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are comfortable with circular needles and basic shaping techniques.