Liquid Geography

Liquid Geography Knitted Lace Shawl by Mary-Anne Mace

What Is Being Made

Liquid Geography is a triangular knitted shawl designed by Mary-Anne Mace. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a large, elegant wrap measuring 94 cm deep with a top edge width of 210 cm (37 inches deep by 83 inches wide). The shawl is suitable for intermediate knitters seeking a sophisticated lace project with substantial yardage and geometric patterning.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for approximately 940 metres (1030 yards) of heavy laceweight or laceweight yarn. The original design was created using Zealana Kiwi Laceweight, a luxury blend comprising 40% Merino wool, 30% possum fiber, and 30% cotton. This yarn weight provides 198 metres per 40 grams. The recommended color is Papura. Designers are encouraged to substitute yarns of similar weight and yardage to accommodate personal preferences and gauge variations.

Needles and Gauge

Knitters will need 3.5 mm (US 4) and 3.75 mm (US 5) circular needles measuring at least 100 cm (40 inches) in length to accommodate the expanding stitch count as the shawl grows. The pattern specifies a gauge of approximately 21 stitches and 24 rows per 10 cm when measured over Chart A repeat box after blocking. Gauge is measured over a 20-stitch by 24-row swatch to ensure proper finished dimensions.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

Liquid Geography employs classic triangular shawl construction techniques combined with lace stitch patterning. The shawl begins with a simple garter tab, a foundational technique that creates a sturdy starting point for the expanding triangle.

The shawl features strategic increases worked on every right-side (RS) row, with 4 total increases per right-side row—specifically 2 increases positioned at the centre spine and 1 increase at each edge. These increases are not included in the charted pattern sections, allowing the designer to control shaping independently from the lace motifs.

The pattern incorporates garter edge stitches (2 stitches total, or 4 when counting both sides) and a single central spine stitch that runs vertically down the middle of the shawl. These structural elements are not charted, providing clean edges and a defined center line. The body of the shawl is worked from charted lace patterns, with Chart A serving as the primary repeat unit for gauge measurement.

This combination of garter stitch borders, a central spine, and charted lace sections creates a balanced design where the geometric patterning is framed by stable, non-lace elements. The intermediate difficulty rating reflects the need to manage chart reading, consistent increases, and the precision required for lace knitting while maintaining proper gauge over a large project.