Mystic wrap

Mystic Wrap by Brigitte Reydams

What is Being Made

The Mystic Wrap is a sophisticated knitted shawl designed by Brigitte Reydams for Prism Arts, Inc. This wrap features a mitered corner construction and is sized as a one-size garment measuring approximately 22 inches deep at the back and 80 inches long at the front and neck. The design showcases a striking interplay between textured and smooth yarns, making it a versatile accessory suitable for various styling preferences.

Design and Construction Techniques

The Mystic Wrap employs a mitered corner construction method, a classic shawl-building technique that creates geometric shaping through strategic decreases. The pattern begins with a cast-on of 96 stitches divided into two sections, marked with a stitch marker at the midpoint. The mitered decreases are worked symmetrically on both sides of the center marker, using slip-stitch decreases (ssk and k2tog) to create the characteristic diagonal lines and corner shaping that define this construction method.

The wrap combines two distinct yarn types to create visual contrast and textural interest. Yarn A provides varied texture and visual complexity, while Yarn B contributes structured, smooth bands that frame and accent the textured sections. This color-blocking approach allows for customization: knitters can choose high-contrast colorways such as Antique and Straw for bold visual impact, or opt for more subtle, harmonious combinations like Desert Rose and Bracken for a refined aesthetic.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns Used

The Mystic Wrap incorporates several fundamental knitting stitches and techniques:

• Garter Stitch: The primary stitch pattern worked with Yarn B, created by knitting every row. This produces a dense, textured fabric with excellent drape and structure.
• Stockinette Stitch: Used in sections worked with Yarn A, alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side to create a smooth, classic fabric.
• Mitered Decreases: The pattern employs ssk (slip, slip, knit) and k2tog (knit two together) decreases worked symmetrically around the center marker to shape the wrap and create the mitered corner effect.
• I-Cord Trim: A finishing technique using two long circular needles to create a decorative, tubular cord edging that frames the wrap's perimeter.
• Crochet Finishing: A crochet hook is used in the finishing process, adding a professional edge to the completed wrap.

Materials and Gauge

The Mystic Wrap is worked in aran weight yarn, a medium-weight classification that provides excellent stitch definition and drape. The pattern requires one full skein plus one half skein of Stuff (Yarn A) and three skeins of Symphony (Yarn B). Construction utilizes size 9 straight needles for the main wrap sections, two long circular size 9 needles for the I-cord trim, and a size G crochet hook for finishing details.

The gauge is established at 16 stitches and 32 rows over 4 inches when working garter stitch with Yarn B on size 9 needles. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished dimensions and ensuring the wrap drapes as intended.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, the Mystic Wrap is suitable for knitters with foundational skills and experience working with multiple techniques. The mitered corner construction requires understanding of stitch markers, decreases, and pattern reading. The combination of garter and stockinette stitches, along with yarn management when carrying yarn along edges, demands moderate technical proficiency. The inclusion of I-cord finishing and crochet work adds complexity, making this an excellent project for knitters seeking to expand their skill set beyond basic garment construction.