Leaf Line Shawl

Leaf Line Shawl by Shannon Squire

What is Being Made

The Leaf Line Shawl is a top-down triangular shawl designed by Shannon Squire and released in collaboration with the Fiber Seed as part of their Swifties program. This is an intermediate-level knitting project that combines a garter-stitch base with decorative leafy elements and a contrasting meshy border, creating a versatile accessory suitable for various skill levels within the intermediate range.

Construction and Design Features

This shawl is constructed using a top-down approach, meaning knitters begin at the top point and work downward toward the edges. The design is garter-stitch based, which creates a notably squishy and textured fabric with excellent drape and flexibility. The pattern incorporates a leafy spine running down the center of the shawl, providing visual interest and structural definition. A contrasting meshy border frames the outer edge, adding an open, lacy quality that contrasts beautifully with the dense garter-stitch body.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

Knitters will use fundamental garter-stitch techniques as the foundation of this project, combined with shaping increases to expand the triangular form. The pattern employs the centered double decrease (cdd) stitch, which is worked by slipping two stitches together from the left needle to the right needle as if to knit, knitting one stitch from the left needle, and then passing the two slipped stitches back over the knit stitch and off the right needle. This decrease creates a centered, decorative line that contributes to the leafy spine design element.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Leaf Line Shawl requires approximately 465 yards (425 meters) of total yarn in a dk-to-worsted-weight yarn. The designer used Fiber Seed Sprout Worsted in two colors: Gulfstream (color A, 215 yards/196.5 meters) and Cottaga #2 (color B, 250 yards/228.5 meters). Knitters will need US 7 (4.5mm) circular needles measuring 24 inches (60 centimeters) or longer, or a needle size adjusted to obtain the correct gauge for their chosen yarn.

Skill Level and Suitability

Rated as an intermediate project, the Leaf Line Shawl is appropriate for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle shaping, decreases, and multi-color work. The garter-stitch base makes it forgiving and meditative, while the leafy spine and meshy border add visual complexity and technical interest without requiring advanced techniques.