Radiance Wrapper

Radiance Wrapper by Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton

Project Overview

The Radiance Wrapper is an intermediate-level knitted shawl designed by independent designer Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton. This one-size wrap measures 7.5 inches (19 cm) in width, with a length of approximately 54 inches (137 cm) at the inner edge and 90 inches (228 cm) at the outside fringe edge, making it a versatile accessory suitable for layering and draping.

Techniques and Construction

This shawl showcases the designer's signature Geometric Openwork™ technique, which is highlighted as a key feature of the pattern. One of the primary advantages of this technique is that knitters do not need to break the yarn when working the openings in the pattern, allowing for continuous, uninterrupted knitting. The construction begins with knitting 4 rows over all stitches, followed by repeating the geometric openwork pattern 50 or more times, depending on the desired number of openings. The pattern concludes with binding off all stitches over the next row. The designer provides visual support through photographs that demonstrate how to invisibly carry yarn throughout the project.

Stitches Used

The Radiance Wrapper is worked primarily in Garter stitch, which creates a textured, reversible fabric. This classic stitch is combined with the openwork elements that define the geometric pattern, creating visual interest while maintaining the structural integrity of the wrap.

Materials and Gauge

This project uses a blend of two distinct yarns to create its striking appearance:

• Mochi Plus from Crystal Palace Yarns (3 skeins of 50g, 95 yards/87 meters each) in colorway #609, worked at a gauge of approximately 22 stitches and 44 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in Garter stitch
• Tosh Vintage from Madeleine Tosh (1 hank of 100g, 200 yards/182 meters) in Cathedral, worked at a gauge of approximately 14 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in Garter stitch

Needles

The pattern requires two needle sizes to accommodate the different yarn weights: US 6 (4 mm) straight needles for the finer Mochi Plus yarn and US 10 (6 mm circular needles (long) for the heavier Tosh Vintage yarn. The use of long circular needles ensures adequate space for the shawl's generous dimensions as it grows.

Yarn Weight and Difficulty

The Radiance Wrapper is worked in worsted weight yarn, providing a balance between drape and structure. Classified as an intermediate difficulty project, this shawl is suitable for knitters with some experience who are ready to explore more complex stitch patterns and techniques, particularly the geometric openwork method featured in this design.