Jackson Square

Jackson Square Shawl by Beth Kling

What Is Being Made

Jackson Square is a knitted shawl pattern designed by Beth Kling. This beginner-friendly shawl features a triangular or crescent silhouette that grows from a small cast-on edge. The pattern is available in multiple sizes, with the smallest option requiring approximately 1 skein of yarn and measuring roughly 49 inches by 15 inches. Larger sizes increase in width by 4¼ inches and in depth by 1 inch per size increment, with the next size up requiring 2 skeins and measuring approximately 53¼ inches by 16 inches. This versatile accessory works well as a lightweight wrap, shoulder shawl, or decorative layering piece.

Knitting Techniques Used

Jackson Square employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginners while creating visual interest through strategic decreasing. The pattern utilizes a provisional cast-on method, which allows stitches to be picked up later for a seamless finishing edge. This technique involves using waste yarn and a crochet hook to create a temporary cast-on that can be unraveled and worked in the opposite direction. The shawl construction relies on centered decreases to shape the fabric and create elegant stitch definition as the piece expands.

Stitches Used

The pattern incorporates the following stitches and abbreviations:

• Knit (k) — the fundamental stitch that forms the base of the fabric
• Knit through the back loop (ktbl) — a twisted knit stitch that creates a subtly different texture and appearance
• Centered double decrease (cdd) — a shaping technique performed by slipping 2 stitches together as if to knit 2 together, knitting the next stitch, then passing the two slipped stitches over the knit stitch, which decreases 2 stitches in one operation and creates a centered vertical line
• Bind off (BO) — the finishing technique used to secure stitches and complete the edges
• Cast on (CO) — the method for creating the initial stitches

Materials and Tools

Jackson Square is designed to be worked with French Market Fibers Uptown Sock yarn, a luxury blend composed of 70% Alpaca, 20% Silk, and 10% Cashmere. This yarn is classified as 4-ply weight and provides 437 yards (approximately 400 meters) per 3.53 ounce (100 gram) skein. The pattern shown features the Wrought Iron colorway. The recommended needle size is US 4 (3.5 mm) circular needles at least 24 inches long, which allows for comfortable working of the expanding shawl. Additional tools required include a size E (3.5 mm) crochet hook for executing the provisional cast-on, smooth waste yarn of approximately the same weight as the main yarn for the provisional cast-on method, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends upon completion.