Corduroy Shawl

Corduroy Shawl by Shannon Squire

What is Being Made

The Corduroy Shawl is a knitted wrap designed to showcase a unique textural effect inspired by corduroy fabric. By alternating between stockinette and reverse stockinette stitch sections, the shawl creates distinctive "wales"—the characteristic ridges found in traditional corduroy textiles. This design transforms a classic fabric concept into a wearable knit accessory that combines visual interest with tactile comfort.

Techniques Used

The primary technique employed in this pattern involves holding two yarns together while knitting to create a luxurious, multi-textured fabric. The shawl demonstrates the effective use of stitch contrast to generate dimensional surface effects. By strategically alternating between two opposing knit structures, the designer creates visual depth and the illusion of corduroy's characteristic ridged texture. This approach allows crafters to explore how simple stitch choices can dramatically transform the appearance and feel of a finished piece.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch – the foundation stitch that creates smooth, flat fabric in alternating sections
• Reverse Stockinette Stitch – used in alternating sections to create the contrasting textured "wales" that mimic corduroy ridging

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This shawl requires approximately 450 yards (411.5 meters) of yarn worked in a two-strand held-together technique. The recommended yarn combination pairs a fingering-weight yarn with a lace-weight kid mohair and silk blend, creating a luxurious, soft fabric with subtle fuzz. The designer used Knitted Wit Shimmer Fingering in Unicorn Giggles paired with a complementary lace-weight yarn for the sample.

Crafters have flexibility in yarn selection: the pattern accommodates either a fingering-weight or sport-weight yarn held together with the lace-weight mohair/silk blend. This combination produces a luscious, silky fabric with a delicate texture designed to feel comfortable against the skin. The mohair component contributes a subtle, appealing fuzz that enhances the shawl's tactile appeal.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, this pattern is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to explore stitch variation and yarn-holding techniques. The alternating stitch pattern requires attention to detail and familiarity with both stockinette and reverse stockinette stitches, making it an excellent project for developing texture-work skills.

Pattern Information

Pattern © Shannon Squire Designs, 2019. This downloadable PDF pattern is intended for personal use only and may not be copied, distributed, or used for commercial purposes.