South Bank Shawl

South Bank Shawl by K.M. Bedigan

Design Overview

The South Bank Shawl is a knitted accessory inspired by the iconic London skyline, particularly the London Eye Ferris wheel. This versatile design offers knitters the flexibility to create either a half-circular or full-circular version, making it adaptable to different skill levels and yarn availability. The shawl features optional beading embellishments for those seeking added visual interest and texture.

Construction Options

This pattern accommodates two distinct construction methods:

• Half-Circular Version: Measures 45 x 20.5 inches (115 x 52 cm) and requires 437.5 yards (400 meters) of fingering weight yarn. This option is ideal for knitters seeking a smaller project or those new to shawl construction.
• Full-Circular Version: Measures 45 inches (115 cm) in diameter and requires 875 yards (800 meters) of fingering weight yarn. This version necessitates circular needles and double-pointed needles for completion.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The South Bank Shawl employs chart-based knitting instructions alongside optional written instructions, allowing knitters to follow their preferred method. The pattern utilizes stitch markers to track pattern repeats and construction progress—11 markers for the half-circular version and 16 for the full-circular version. The design incorporates fingering weight yarn worked on 4mm (US 6) needles, creating a delicate, lacy fabric typical of shawlette construction.

For knitters choosing the optional beading embellishment, the pattern includes instructions for incorporating 132 beads in the half version and 224 beads in the full version (size 6). Beading is executed using a crochet hook suitable for threading beads onto yarn before knitting or adding them during construction.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for fingering weight / 4 ply yarn in quantities of 437.5 yards for the half-circular shawl or 875 yards for the full-circular design. The sample garments were photographed in The Uncommon Thread Merino Silk Fingering yarn in the 'Breath' colourway (half version) and Posh yarn Elinor Sock in the 'Burning up the Dance Floor' colourway (full version), showcasing how different yarn choices and colors affect the finished appearance.

Essential tools include 4mm (US 6) circular needles (required for the full-circular version), 4mm (US 6) double-pointed needles (for the full version), a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and blocking wires or pins for finishing. A crochet hook appropriate for bead threading is necessary only if selecting the optional beading option.

Difficulty Level

Classified as a beginner project, the South Bank Shawl is accessible to knitters new to shawl construction. The pattern provides both chart and written instructions, accommodating different learning preferences and allowing beginners to build confidence with lace and shaping techniques.

Pattern Contents

The downloadable PDF includes comprehensive documentation: blocking guidance, schematics for both versions, abbreviations, notes, written instructions for both the half and full-circular versions, detailed charts for pattern reference, and optional beading specifications.