Mihály

Mihály Shawl and Scarf by Amanda Kaffka

What Is Being Made

Mihály is a versatile knit design available in two distinct versions: a large and long shawl measuring 90" x 18", and a slim and long scarf measuring 90" x 9". Both pieces are designed to provide warmth, comfort, and sophisticated style suitable for year-round wear. The design emphasizes cozy elegance with a focus on refined construction and visual interest through strategic color work.

Knitting Techniques

This intermediate-level knitting project employs bias knitting as its primary construction method, meaning the fabric is worked diagonally across the piece rather than in traditional straight rows. This technique creates inherent drape and dimension in the finished garment. The bias pattern is worked throughout the entire length of both versions, contributing to the sophisticated appearance and comfortable fit of the shawl and scarf.

Color work is incorporated through striping using three distinct colorways that add visual interest and panache to the design. The pattern requires knitters to change colors on the purl side of the work, and importantly, yarn is not broken between color changes—instead, the pattern indicates specific breaking points, allowing for efficient yarn management and a cleaner finished piece.

Stitches and Stitch Details

While specific stitch abbreviations are referenced in the pattern, the design utilizes a fundamental stockinette-based construction enhanced by the bias knitting technique. The gauge for this project is 11 stitches x 13 rows over 4 inches when worked on the bias, which is essential for achieving the correct dimensions and drape in the finished piece.

Yarn and Materials

Mihály is knit using Viva Luxury Baby Alpaca, a super soft fiber that provides exceptional comfort and warmth. The yarn is worked on size Diamond needles.

For the Shawl Version: The project requires 2 balls each of three colorways totaling 600 yards:

• 2 balls Colour A: Black Tan #4014
• 2 balls Colour B: Café Macchiato #4009
• 2 balls Colour C: Summer Fog #4010

For the Scarf Version: The project requires 1 ball each of three colorways totaling 300 yards:

• 1 ball Colour A: Black Tan #4014
• 1 ball Colour B: Café Macchiato #4009
• 1 ball Colour C: Summer Fog #4010

The three sophisticated neutral colorways—black tan, café macchiato, and summer fog—work together to create a subtle striped pattern that adds depth and visual sophistication to the finished piece while maintaining a refined, wearable aesthetic suitable for various seasons and styling occasions.