Maye

Maye Shawl by Zsuzsanna Orthodoxou

What is Being Made

Maye is a lightweight knitted shawl designed by Zsuzsanna Orthodoxou. This elegant wrap combines simplicity with sophisticated design, offering a versatile piece that is both refined and approachable. The finished shawl measures approximately 49.25 cm (19.75 inches) in width and 226.75 cm (90.75 inches) in length when blocked, making it a generous rectangular wrap suitable for layering or wearing as a traditional shawl.

Construction Method

Maye is worked flat in one continuous piece, beginning with the bottom border and progressing to the top border. This straightforward construction approach makes the pattern accessible to knitters new to shawl design. The pattern repeats consist of 8 repeats of a 12-stitch pattern across the width and 31 repeats of a 20-row pattern for the length, allowing for size adjustability based on individual preferences and yarn availability.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Knit stitch (k) – the fundamental stitch forming the base of the fabric
• Purl stitch (p) – used in combination with knit stitches to create textural variation
• Elongated stitch (el) – a decorative technique where yarn is wrapped twice around the needle, then the extra wrap is dropped on the following row while working the stitch as instructed, creating distinctive elongated loops
• Cast on (CO) – the foundation row establishing stitches on the needle
• Bind off (BO) – the finishing technique securing stitches at the completion of the shawl
• Place marker (pm) – used to track pattern repeats and construction progress

Yarn and Materials

Maye requires 165 grams of lace-weight yarn totaling approximately 1356 meters (1485 yards). The pattern calls for 4 skeins of Brooklyn Tweed Vale, a 2-ply lace-weight yarn composed of 100% American Rambouillet wool in the Barberry colorway. Each skein provides approximately 50 grams and 411 meters (450 yards) of yarn. The lace-weight classification ensures the finished shawl remains lightweight and drapes beautifully when worn.

Difficulty Level

Maye is classified as a beginner-friendly pattern, making it an excellent introduction to shawl knitting. While the design incorporates elegant stitch techniques including elongated stitches, the straightforward flat construction and clear pattern repeats make it manageable for knitters developing their skills.