Argante

Argante Shawlette by Corrina Ferguson

What is Being Made

Argante is a knitted shawlette designed by independent designer Corrina Ferguson. This is a versatile wrap-style shawl worked in a triangular or crescent shape, suitable for intermediate knitters seeking a sophisticated layering piece. The finished shawlette showcases elegant lace detailing combined with textured sections, making it an elegant accessory for various occasions.

Construction Method and Design Approach

This shawlette employs a distinctive side-to-side construction technique, meaning the piece is worked horizontally from one edge to the opposite edge rather than from the center outward or top-down. The design is organized into eight distinct sections, each contributing to the overall structure and visual interest of the finished piece. A notable feature of this construction is the knitted-on lace edging, which is worked simultaneously as you progress through the main body, eliminating the need for a separate finishing step. This integrated approach creates a seamless, professionally finished edge.

Stitch Techniques and Pattern Features

The pattern combines fundamental knitting techniques with decorative lace elements. Core stitches employed include:

• Knit and purl stitches forming the foundation of the garter stitch sections, which create a reversible, textured fabric with excellent drape
• Yarn overs (yo) for creating the lace motifs and decorative openwork
• Decreases including knit 2 together (k2tog) and knit 3 together (k3tog) to shape the shawlette and create the characteristic lace patterning
• Knit front and back (kfb) increases for strategic shaping within sections
• Yarnover turn (yot) techniques as outlined in the pattern instructions, adding complexity and visual interest

The lace edging features variable stitch counts, beginning with 12 stitches and adjusting throughout to accommodate the side-to-side construction method. Stitch markers are used to track pattern repeats and section transitions.

Pattern Format and Customization

The Argante pattern is provided in dual format—both charted and written instructions—allowing knitters to choose their preferred reading method. The section-by-section instructions are essential when working from charts, as they detail the specific increases and decreases required within the garter stitch sections to maintain proper shaping throughout construction.

This shawlette is designed with gauge flexibility. While the recommended gauge is 18 stitches and 26 rows to 4 inches in blocked garter stitch, the pattern can be successfully worked at any gauge. The designer specifically recommends using needles larger than typically recommended for your chosen yarn weight to encourage superior drape and fluidity in the finished fabric.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Argante shawlette requires 100 grams of yarn with a yardage of 440 yards, making it an efficient project that doesn't require excessive yardage. The recommended yarn is Politically Incorrect Fingering Merino/Silk in the Red-Headed Step-Child colorway. This yarn blend combines the elasticity and warmth of merino wool with the lustrous sheen and smooth drape of silk, creating a luxurious finished garment with excellent stitch definition and a subtle shimmer.

The project is worked on Size 7 needles (4.5 mm), though as noted, larger needles than standard are encouraged to enhance the fabric's drape characteristics. Two stitch markers are required for tracking pattern sections and transitions.

Skill Level and Suitability

Argante is rated as an intermediate difficulty project, appropriate for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle more sophisticated construction methods and lace techniques. The side-to-side construction combined with integrated edging and variable stitch counts requires attention to detail and comfort with reading both written and charted instructions, making this an excellent project for advancing one's technical repertoire.