Akene

Akene Shawl by Bérangère Cailliau

Project Overview

Akene is a downloadable knitting pattern for a shawl designed by independent designer Bérangère Cailliau. This beginner-friendly project combines simple techniques with visual interest through strategic use of stitch variation and color changes, making it an engaging introduction to shawl construction.

What Is Being Made

A triangular or crescent shawl worked in a side-to-side construction method. The design features alternating stripes of different textured stitches that create visual depth while maintaining accessibility for knitters new to shawl patterns. The shawl is finished with an optional picots edge that can be added or omitted based on personal preference.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Side-to-side construction: The shawl is worked horizontally from one edge to the other, allowing for flexible finishing and easier stitch count management
• Striped colorwork: Two distinct yarn colors are alternated throughout the pattern to create visual interest
• Textured stitch alternation: The pattern alternates between garter stitch and grain d'orme stitch to add dimension
• Picots edge finishing: An optional decorative edging technique worked after the main body is complete, giving knitters control over the final aesthetic

Stitches Used

• Garter stitch: The foundational stitch creating a ridged, reversible fabric with excellent drape for shawls
• Grain d'orme stitch: A textured stitch pattern that adds visual and tactile interest while remaining beginner-accessible
• Picots: Decorative loops along the edge created through yarn overs and bind-offs

Materials and Specifications

Yarn Requirements: Approximately 730 meters total of fingering weight yarn in two colors. The pattern specifies Malabrigo Sock in Persia (approximately 370 m from one skein) for color 1 and Madelinetosh Tosh Sock in Astrid Grey (approximately 360 m from one skein) for color 2. Both yarns are 3-ply and 4-ply weight options suitable for this project.

Tools: 3.5mm (US4) needles are required for this pattern.

Gauge: The pattern requires two different gauges depending on stitch type. Garter stitch should measure 21 stitches and 40 rows over a 10 cm x 10 cm swatch when blocked. Grain d'orme stitch should measure 22 stitches and 32 rows over a 10 cm x 10 cm swatch when blocked, both worked on 3.5mm needles.

Difficulty Level

Rated as beginner-friendly, Akene is an excellent entry point for knitters interested in shawl patterns. The straightforward side-to-side construction eliminates complex shaping, while the alternation of basic stitches keeps the knitting process engaging without overwhelming new crafters.