Slip Stream

Slip Stream Shawl by Aspen Knits

Project Overview

Slip Stream is an intermediate-level knitted shawl designed by Aspen Knits. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a long, elegant wrap measuring 100 inches (254 cm) in length and 12 inches (30 cm) in width, making it a versatile accessory suitable for layering or draping.

What Is Being Made

The Slip Stream is a rectangular shawl that showcases color work through a repeating stitch pattern. The design is constructed by working the same stitch pattern 10 times total, with each repetition featuring a different color combination. This approach allows crafters to create a cohesive, multi-colored finished piece that blends colors together seamlessly, particularly when using gradient mini-skein packs.

Yarn and Materials

This project requires 10 mini skeins of fingering weight yarn, with each mini skein containing 90 yards (82 meters). The pattern suggests using two 5-packs of mini skeins, which works especially well with gradient mini-packs where colors transition smoothly from one to the next. Crafters also have the flexibility to select 10 random mini-skeins and experiment with color combinations. The sample shown in the pattern was created using two Knit Picks Stroll mini packs.

Additional notions required include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and a stitch marker to track pattern repeats.

Needles and Gauge

The Slip Stream is worked on US Size 5 (3.75 mm) needles, which can be either straight or circular depending on personal preference. The pattern is worked at a gauge of 22 stitches over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is important for obtaining the finished dimensions specified in the pattern.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Slip Stream uses fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for an intermediate-level crafter. The primary stitches and techniques employed include:

• Stockinette stitch – the base fabric created by alternating knit and purl rows
• Knit (K) – the basic knit stitch
• Purl (P) – the basic purl stitch
• Knit 2 together (k2tog) – a right-leaning decrease that reduces stitch count
• Slip, slip, knit (ssk) – a left-leaning decrease worked by slipping two stitches knitwise and knitting them together
• Yarn over (yo) – a stitch that creates an eyelet or lace hole, adding visual interest and texture

Color Work Approach

The Slip Stream employs a unique color-work strategy that differs from traditional stranded colorwork. Rather than carrying multiple colors across a row, this pattern uses a main color (MC) and contrasting color (CC) approach. Crafters number their 10 mini skeins as C1 through C10. The Slip Stream Stitch Pattern is then worked 10 times total. During each pattern repeat, one color serves as the main color while another serves as the contrasting color. This method ensures that each of the 10 colors is featured as both the MC and CC at different points in the construction, creating a balanced, integrated color design.

Pattern Structure

The pattern is organized with clear abbreviations and pattern notes to guide intermediate knitters through the construction. The repeating stitch pattern forms the foundation of the design, and the strategic color changes create visual movement and interest across the finished shawl. The rectangular shape and generous length make the Slip Stream suitable for various styling options.