Simply Katia Shawl

Simply Katia Shawl

What is Being Made

The Simply Katia Shawl is a triangular knitted shawl designed by Kay Meadors. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a generous wrap that expands significantly during the blocking process. The finished shawl measures 60 inches across the top from tip to tip and 25 inches at the center back point when unblocked, expanding to 76 inches across and 26 inches at the center back when blocked, making it a versatile accessory suitable for layering or draping.

Techniques Used

This shawl employs fundamental knitting techniques combined with strategic shaping methods. The construction begins with a small cast-on and uses increases throughout to create the triangular silhouette. Key shaping techniques include yarn overs for decorative increases and knit-front-and-back stitches for functional shaping. The pattern utilizes stockinette stitch as the primary fabric base, which creates a smooth, refined appearance ideal for showcasing the variegated yarn colors. Blocking is an essential finishing technique for this design, as it significantly increases the shawl's dimensions and helps even out the fabric for a polished, professional appearance.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K) – the fundamental stitch forming the base fabric
• Purl (P) – used in combination with knit stitches for pattern variation
• Yarn Over (YO) – creates decorative eyelets and serves as an increase method
• Knit 2 Together (K2tog) – a decrease stitch for shaping
• Knit Front and Back (Kfb) – an increase stitch used in the construction
• Stockinette Stitch – the primary stitch pattern creating the smooth fabric base

Materials and Tools

This project requires one ball of Paint by Katia yarn, which provides 590 yards of yardage at 540 meters and weighs 5 ounces (150 grams). The yarn is available in dk and worsted weights, offering flexibility in fiber choice. Paint by Katia is a variegated yarn, and the pattern notes suggest considering which color you wish to end with before beginning, as the ball features multiple colors that will appear throughout the shawl. A size 7 (5.00 mm) circular needle measuring 24 inches is recommended, though needle size may be adjusted to achieve proper gauge. Additional materials include a yarn needle for weaving in ends, pins for securing the shawl during blocking, and blocking wires to shape and set the finished piece.

Gauge and Sizing Information

The pattern specifies a gauge of 17 stitches and 24 rows equaling 4 inches in stockinette stitch. Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the finished shawl reaches the intended dimensions. The needle size recommendation of size 7 (5.00 mm) is a starting point; adjustments may be necessary based on individual gauge swatches, as different knitters may require different needle sizes to achieve the correct stitch and row gauge.