Fade into Nippon

Fade into Nippon Knitted Shawl by Aniknits

What Is Being Made

Fade into Nippon is an asymmetrical knitted shawl designed by Aniknits that celebrates a journey through Asia, culminating in Japan during cherry blossom season. This intermediate-level knitting project combines traditional garter stitch construction with delicate lace patterning to create a sophisticated, wearable garment with cultural inspiration.

Design and Construction Technique

The shawl employs an asymmetrical construction method built through strategic increases worked on one side of the piece. This directional increase technique allows the shawl to develop its distinctive triangular or crescent shape while maintaining structural integrity. The design features a color-fading element that transitions across three distinct colorways, creating a visual journey that mirrors the road trip concept of the pattern.

The construction begins with garter stitch as the foundational body, which provides a sturdy, reversible fabric with excellent drape characteristics. The final step incorporates a Japanese-inspired lace pattern that transforms the solid garter stitch base into an intricate, openwork design that defines the shawl's unique aesthetic character.

Stitches Used

• Garter stitch: Forms the primary body of the shawl, worked in multiple garter ridges across the three color sections
• Lace pattern: Japanese-inspired lace motifs applied as the final step to create openwork details and visual interest
• Increases: Worked consistently on one side to build the asymmetrical shawl structure

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for approximately 1220 meters of fingering weight yarn (4-ply) divided across three color sections. The sample was knitted using Luxxyarns Silky Yak, a premium blend consisting of 65% Merino Wool, 20% Silk, and 15% Yak fiber. Each skein yields 480 meters (437 yards) per 120 grams. The three colorways used in the sample are Lava Stone (color 1, 260 meters), Pink Rose (color 2, 170 × 87cm / 480 meters), and Silver Lining (color 3, 170 × 87cm / 480 meters).

The combination of Merino Wool, Silk, and Yak creates a yarn with excellent elasticity, lustrous sheen, and temperature-regulating properties ideal for a luxury shawl project. The fingering weight ensures the lace pattern will be clearly defined while maintaining appropriate drape.

Needles and Tools

• Needles: 3.5mm (US 4) needles in an 80cm cable length configuration
• Additional tool: Cable needle for stitch manipulation during lace pattern work

Finished Dimensions

The completed shawl measures approximately 170 × 87cm (or 480 meters of yarn per color section for colors 2 and 3, with color 1 requiring 260 meters), creating a substantial wrap suitable for layering or wearing as a statement accessory.

Skill Level

Rated as intermediate difficulty, this project requires competence with garter stitch construction, directional increases, and lace knitting techniques. Knitters should be comfortable reading lace charts and managing multiple color transitions while maintaining consistent tension and stitch definition.