Light in shadows

Light in Shadows Shawl by Milja Uimonen

What is Being Made

Light in Shadows is an advanced knitted shawl design by independent designer Milja Uimonen. This downloadable PDF pattern offers knitters the opportunity to create an elegant shawl using either a two-color striped construction or a solid colorway approach, making it a versatile project for experienced knitters seeking sophisticated knitwear.

Yarn Options and Materials

The pattern provides flexibility with two distinct yarn recommendations, each producing different aesthetic results:

• Striped Version: Hedgehog Fibres Sock Yarn (80% merino, 20% polyamide, 383 yards per 100g). Main Color (MC) Raven requires approximately 306 yards, while Contrast Color (CC) Villain requires approximately 130 yards.
• Solid Version: Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light (100% merino, 420 yards per 100g). Main Color (MC) Badlands requires approximately 200 yards, while Contrast Color (CC) Wellwater requires approximately 320 yards.

Both yarn options are 4-ply weight, providing excellent stitch definition and drape suitable for shawl construction. The merino fiber content in both choices offers softness, breathability, and elasticity essential for comfortable wear.

Needles and Notions

Knitters will need a US 6 / 4 mm circular needle measuring 32 inches (80 cm) in length. Additional notions include 2 stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and a weaving needle for finishing and weaving in yarn ends.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 stitches and 35 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette Stitch after blocking. While gauge is noted as not being crucial to the pattern's success, variations in gauge will affect the final dimensions of the completed shawl, allowing for customization based on individual tension and preferences.

Techniques and Stitches

Light in Shadows employs advanced knitting techniques appropriate for experienced crafters. The pattern incorporates Stockinette Stitch as the primary stitch structure, creating smooth, refined fabric surfaces. The construction includes wrap and turn (w&t) short-row shaping, a sophisticated technique that creates curved, three-dimensional shaping without requiring increases or decreases in traditional ways. This method allows the shawl to develop organic curves and elegant drape.

The two-color striped version involves color work techniques, requiring knitters to manage multiple yarn colors throughout the project. Stitch markers are essential for tracking pattern repeats and maintaining consistency across the shawl's construction.

Pattern Format and Use

Light in Shadows is provided as a downloadable PDF pattern for personal use only. The pattern is copyrighted by Milja Uimonen (known as Miljaska on Ravelry) and Starling Knits and Crafts, and reproduction or commercial use of either the pattern or finished products is not permitted.