Gratitude Attitude Shawl

Gratitude Attitude Shawl by BiggerthanlifeKnits

Project Overview

The Gratitude Attitude Shawl is an asymmetric knit shawl designed by Noma Ndlovu. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a generous finished piece measuring 64 inches (162.5 cm) in wingspan and 21 inches (53 cm) in depth, making it an ideal accessory for layering or wrapping. The asymmetric construction provides visual interest and modern styling versatility.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a single asymmetric shawl suitable for intermediate knitters. The finished garment is a large wrap-style shawl that combines two coordinating yarn colors for visual contrast and depth. The design excludes tassel measurements from the wingspan specification, allowing for customization of finishing details.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Gratitude Attitude Shawl employs a combination of fundamental knitting techniques that work together to create texture and visual appeal. Garter stitch forms the primary textured base, creating a squishy, dimensional fabric with excellent drape. Slip stitches are incorporated throughout the pattern to add refinement and create subtle stitch definition without adding bulk. The pattern features a repeating sequence that is designed to be easy to memorize, allowing knitters to work without constantly referencing the instructions once the repeat is established. This memorability factor makes the project ideal for intermediate-level crafters seeking a meditative knitting experience with minimal pattern complexity.

Stitches and Abbreviations

The pattern utilizes the following essential stitches and abbreviations:

• K – knit stitch, the fundamental forward stitch
• K2tog – knit two stitches together, used for decreasing
• Sl1wyif – slip one stitch with yarn in front, a slip stitch variation
• Sl1wyib – slip one stitch with yarn in back, another slip stitch variation
• St(s) – stitch or stitches

The slip stitch variations control yarn positioning and create refined edges and textural elements throughout the shawl.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This pattern calls for 4-ply yarn weight in two coordinating colors from Miss La Motte yarns:

• Main Colour (Colour A): 2 skeins of Miss La Motte yarns Singles in Nightmare colorway; 100% Merino wool; 100g per skein; approximately 360 meters or 393 yards per skein
• Contrast Colour (Colour B): 1 skein of Miss La Motte yarns Singles Sock in Hibiscus colorway; 100% Merino wool; 100g per skein; approximately 360 meters or 393 yards per skein

The use of 100% Merino wool provides softness, breathability, and excellent elasticity, making this shawl comfortable for extended wear. The two-color construction allows the knitter to create visual contrast while maintaining fiber consistency throughout the project.

Needles and Notions

The pattern requires US 6 (4.0 mm) circular needles measuring 32 inches (80 cm) in length. Circular needles provide flexibility for managing the growing asymmetric shawl and allow for even tension distribution across the wingspan. Additional notions include one stitch marker for tracking pattern repeats and a yarn needle for weaving in ends during finishing.

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches and 48 rows in stockinette stitch over 4 inches (10 cm) after blocking. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished dimensions. The completed shawl measures 64 inches (162.5 cm) in wingspan and 21 inches (53 cm) in depth, with tassel length excluded from these measurements. Blocking is recommended to set the stitches and achieve the specified gauge.

Difficulty Level

Rated as an intermediate pattern, the Gratitude Attitude Shawl is accessible to knitters with foundational skills who are ready to expand their technique repertoire. The memorizable pattern repeat and straightforward stitch combinations make it an excellent project for building confidence with slip stitches and garter stitch variations without overwhelming complexity.