Hedge Maze Shawl

Hedge Maze Shawl by Julia Decker

Project Overview

The Hedge Maze Shawl is an advanced knitting project designed by Julia Decker that creates a stunning half-circle shaped shawl. This downloadable PDF pattern features a sophisticated brioche stitch design that visually mimics the natural intertwining of leaves and branches as they grow, making it both a technical achievement and an artistic statement piece.

Construction Method and Design

This shawl is knit from the top down and center out using the pi formula, a mathematical approach to shawl construction developed by Elizabeth Zimmermann. This method allows for organic growth and expansion of the shawl while maintaining proper proportions and stitch counts throughout the project.

Stitch Techniques

The Hedge Maze Shawl combines multiple advanced knitting techniques to achieve its intricate appearance:

• Two-Color Brioche Stitch: The primary decorative element, requiring circular needles to manage the complex stitch manipulation across two colors
• Garter Stripes: Structural elements that provide definition and texture throughout the design
• Eyelets: Decorative openwork details that add visual interest and lightness to the finished shawl

Finished Dimensions

The completed shawl measures 64 inches (163 cm) in wingspan with a center depth of 28 inches (71 cm), creating a generous half-circle shape suitable for wearing as a wrap or decorative accessory.

Needles and Tools Required

This pattern requires specific needle sizes to achieve proper gauge and accommodate the two-color brioche technique:

• Size US 4/3.50 mm circular needle: Primary needle for working the main body of the shawl in two-color brioche
• Size US 6/4.00 mm needle: Used for the bind-off to create a finished edge
• Additional notions: Stitch markers, tapestry needle, scissors, and optionally a crochet hook if using a crocheted provisional cast-on

Yarn Requirements

The Hedge Maze Shawl is designed for fingering weight yarn in two coordinating colors. The pattern requires 874 yards (800 meters) per color, for a total of approximately 1,748 yards of yarn. The sample was crafted using Knerd String 4-ply Fingering weight yarn in 100% Superwash Merino fiber, specifically in The Fairest colorway. Each skein provides 437 yards (400 meters) per 100 grams, making this a premium fingering weight choice suitable for detailed stitch work.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as advanced and is best suited for experienced knitters. The combination of two-color brioche stitch, top-down construction, and mathematical shaping requires strong foundational knitting skills and comfort with complex stitch manipulation.

Pattern Format

The Hedge Maze Shawl is available as a downloadable PDF pattern, allowing immediate access to the complete instructions for this intricate design by independent designer Julia Decker.