Zora

Zora Knitted Shawl by Jennifer Wood

What Is Being Made

Zora is an intermediate-level knitted shawl designed by Jennifer Wood. This wrap features a distinctive wavy triangular silhouette with generous finished dimensions of 60 inches (152.5 cm) wingspan and 28 inches (71 cm) depth, making it a versatile accessory suitable for layering or draping. The shawl combines a solid main color with a gradient color sequence, creating visual depth and interest across the finished piece.

Construction Technique

This shawl is knitted end to end, a construction method that builds the garment from one point to the opposite point rather than from top to bottom. The distinctive wavy triangular shape is achieved through strategic stitch increases worked along one edge throughout the knitting process. This technique allows the designer to control the shaping and create the elegant, organic waves characteristic of the finished design. Written instructions accompany stitch charts to guide knitters through the pattern.

Stitches and Stitch Work

The primary stitch used in Zora is Stockinette Stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric surface. The pattern is worked at a gauge of 26 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in Stockinette Stitch. The pattern includes charted sections with written instructions provided as an alternative to chart reading, making it accessible to knitters with varying experience levels. The design incorporates stitch markers (4 are required) to help track pattern repeats and shaping increases along the working edge.

Color Work

Zora features a color-blocking approach using a main color (MC) combined with a gradient sequence. The gradient component consists of five mini-skeins (referred to as G1, G2, G3, and so forth in the pattern instructions), allowing knitters to transition smoothly through multiple related hues. Knitters have creative flexibility in determining the direction of the color progression—working from dark to light or light to dark—based on personal preference and how the chosen gradient complements the main color selection.

Materials and Yarn

Yarn: The pattern calls for Anzula Squishy for the main color component. This premium yarn blend consists of 80% Superwash Merino, 10% Cashmere, and 10% Nylon, offering a combination of softness, durability, and easy care. Approximately 385 yards (352 meters) per 144 grams are required in the main color (1 skein in the color Temperance is specified in the sample). The gradient color work uses Anzula Squishy Skeinettes, the same fiber blend in smaller quantities. A complete gradient set provides approximately 335 yards (306 meters) total across five mini-skeins of roughly 67 yards (61 meters) each.

The 3-ply yarn weight provides excellent stitch definition and drape, suitable for the Stockinette Stitch base and the shawl's flowing silhouette. The Superwash Merino content ensures the finished shawl is easy to care for, while the Cashmere and Nylon additions enhance softness and add subtle sheen to the completed wrap.

Needles and Tools

Needles: Size 3 (3.25mm) needles are required, or the size necessary to achieve the specified gauge of 26 stitches and 32 rows per 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch. Needle size may be adjusted slightly depending on individual gauge and desired fabric characteristics.

Additional tools required: Four stitch markers for tracking pattern sections and shaping increases, and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and finishing the completed shawl.

Skill Level and Pattern Format

Zora is rated as an intermediate knitting project, suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are comfortable working from charts and managing color transitions. The pattern is provided as a downloadable PDF, allowing immediate access to both written instructions and stitch charts. This format makes the pattern convenient for digital reference or printing for use while knitting.