Octaaf

Octaaf Triangular Lace Shawl by Susanne Visch

What Is Being Made

Octaaf is a stylish triangular shawl knit sideways with all-over lace patterning throughout. The design takes its name from the verse form consisting of eight lines of poetry, reflecting the structured yet flowing nature of the garment. This downloadable knitting pattern offers flexibility in customization, allowing crafters to adjust yarn weight and total yardage based on personal preference or available materials. Knitters can work the pattern until achieving their desired shawl size or until yarn runs out, making it an adaptable project suitable for various skill levels and stash-busting opportunities.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The shawl is constructed using a sideways knitting method, which creates the triangular shape through strategic increases and the lace pattern integration. This sideways approach allows for intuitive customization of the final dimensions. The all-over lace patterning requires attention to stitch placement and yarn overs to create the delicate, openwork design characteristic of lace shawlettes.

Stitches Used

• Knit (k) – the fundamental stitch forming the fabric base
• Purl (p) – used in combination with knits to create textural variation
• Knit 2 together (k2tog) – a right-leaning decrease used in lace patterning
• Slip 1 knitwise (skp) – a left-leaning decrease technique for balanced lace shaping
• Knit in front and back (kfb) – an increase stitch for expanding the triangular shape
• Yarn overs – creating the openwork holes essential to lace design

Pattern Format and Instructions

The Octaaf pattern provides comprehensive instructions in two formats: fully written-out row-by-row directions and charted visual representations of the lace pattern. This dual-format approach accommodates different learning preferences and allows knitters to choose their preferred method for following the lace sequences.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The designer's sample was created using Manos del Uruguay Silk Blend yarn, a luxurious blend of 70% Merino wool and 30% silk, offering both warmth and elegant drape. The yarn is worked in DK weight (light worsted), though the pattern explicitly notes that customization to other yarn weights is straightforward. The original sample uses three coordinated colors:

• Color 1 (C1) – "Mallard": 137 meters (150 yards) / 50 grams
• Color 2 (C2) – "Steel": 137 meters (150 yards) / 50 grams
• Color 3 (C3) – "Virgo": 274 meters (300 yards) / 100 grams

The pattern is compatible with 4-ply, DK, and sport weight yarns, providing flexibility for substituting alternative fibers while maintaining the intended drape and finished dimensions. The yardage requirements scale proportionally with yarn weight selection, making this design accessible to knitters with varying yarn stash quantities.

Difficulty Level

Octaaf is rated as an intermediate knitting project, suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are comfortable working with lace patterns, multiple decrease techniques, and following charted instructions. The sideways construction and customizable nature make it an excellent project for developing confidence with lace shaping.

Designer Information

Octaaf is designed by independent designer Susanne Visch of La Visch Designs, with pattern copyright dated 2021. The design reflects thoughtful construction and attention to both aesthetic appeal and practical customization options for modern knitters.