After Sunset

After Sunset Shawl by Glenna C

What Is Being Made

After Sunset is an advanced knitting pattern for a triangular shawl designed by independent designer Glenna C. This downloadable PDF pattern offers two finished size options: a larger shawl measuring 52 inches wide along the top edge and 26 inches long down the centre of the triangle, or a smaller version at 72 inches wide and 36 inches long. The shawl is constructed using a top-down triangular construction method, beginning with a small cast-on and expanding through strategic increases to create the characteristic shawl shape.

Techniques Used

The After Sunset shawl employs several intermediate to advanced knitting techniques suitable for experienced crafters. The pattern utilizes garter stitch as a foundational element, with knitters working 4 rows of garter stitch (knitting all stitches) at the cast-on edge. The main body of the shawl is constructed using charted stitch patterns, specifically Chart 1 pattern work, which requires knitters to read and follow written instructions alongside visual stitch charts. The pattern incorporates yarn overs (abbreviated as "yo") to create decorative lace elements and strategic shaping increases. Knitters are advised to use stitch markers to track pattern repeats and maintain consistent shaping throughout the project. The pattern also references the option to place lifelines using waste yarn, a helpful technique for advanced projects that allows knitters to easily correct mistakes by securing a row of stitches.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (K): The fundamental stitch used throughout the garter stitch foundation and main pattern sections
• Yarn overs (yo): Decorative increases that create openwork and lace elements characteristic of shawl design
• Garter stitch: Created by knitting every row, providing a textured, reversible fabric used in the initial rows
• Charted pattern stitches: The main body employs Chart 1 pattern work, which may include various stitch combinations worked from written instructions and visual charts

Materials and Tools

The After Sunset pattern is designed for fingering weight yarn (4-ply), with the recommended yarn being Nimue Sock from Willy Wonka Fibers, a premium blend of 50% silk and 50% merino wool. The pattern requires either 1 skein (435 yards per 100g) for the smaller size or 2 skeins for the larger size in the featured colourway 'Pomegranate', or alternatively 420 yards of fingering weight yarn for the smaller shawl or 800 yards for the larger version in any preferred yarn. Knitters will need a 4.5mm/US 7 circular needle measuring 24 inches (60cm) for working flat. The pattern notes that knitters who work loosely or prefer a smaller finished shawl should consider using a needle 1-2 sizes smaller than indicated. Additional tools required include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and waste yarn for placing optional lifelines. The recommended gauge is 18 stitches and 32 rows over 5 inches of Chart 1 pattern worked on 4.5mm needles, which is essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions.