Intermittent Frivolity Shawl

Intermittent Frivolity Shawl by Cheryl Beckerich

Project Overview

The Intermittent Frivolity Shawl is an intermediate-level knitting project designed by Cheryl Beckerich. This crescent-shaped shawl combines structured garter stitch sections with decorative lace patterns to create a visually dynamic accessory. The finished shawl measures 94 inches in length and 29 inches in width at the center, making it a substantial wrap suitable for layering or draping.

Design Inspiration and Concept

The shawl was inspired by the Intermittent Frivolity colorway from Ewe & Dye Yarns, which features alternating sections of black speckles combined with bright pink, blue, and green speckles. The design philosophy reflects a balance between life's serious moments and times of fun and frivolity. This concept is translated into the knitting structure through the strategic placement of stitch patterns: orderly garter stitch sections represent the serious and structured aspects of life, while two different lace stitch patterns represent moments of playfulness and creative expression.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate-level project employs multiple knitting techniques to achieve its distinctive appearance:

• Garter Stitch: Used for the structured sections of the shawl, creating a dense, reversible fabric that provides visual contrast to the lace elements
• Lace Stitch Patterns: Two different lace stitch patterns are incorporated throughout the design to create openwork sections that represent the frivolous and fun aspects of the design concept
• Circular Knitting: The project is worked on a circular needle, allowing for the construction of the crescent shape

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Intermittent Frivolity Shawl requires 2 skeins of Ewe & Dye fingering weight yarn in the Intermittent Frivolity colorway. This yarn is composed of 80% superwash merino and 20% nylon, providing durability and easy care. Each skein contains 3.5 ounces and yields 400 yards of yardage, providing sufficient material for the complete project.

Tools and Equipment

Knitters will need the following equipment to complete this project:

• Size 6 US (4 mm) circular needle, 32 inches in length, or the size needed to obtain the correct gauge
• Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping increases
• Tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends after completion

Gauge and Blocking

The pattern specifies a gauge of 16.5 stitches and 26 rows over 4 inches in garter stitch after blocking. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the finished dimensions of 94 inches in length and 29 inches in width at the center. Blocking is required to set the stitches and achieve the intended drape and dimensions of the crescent-shaped shawl.

Skill Level and Difficulty

Rated as an intermediate project, the Intermittent Frivolity Shawl is suitable for knitters with some experience who are comfortable working with lace stitch patterns and managing stitches on circular needles. The combination of garter stitch and lace work provides an engaging project that builds skills in stitch pattern integration and shaping techniques.