Once Upon a Pompom

Once Upon a Pom-Pom Shawl by Afifa Knits Designs

What is Being Made

Once Upon a Pom-Pom is a stunning triangular shawl featuring a combination of stockinette and garter stitch stripes. The finished shawl has an approximate wingspan of 75 inches with a 17 inch depth, making it a generous accessory piece suitable for layering or wrapping. The design incorporates decorative pompoms as embellishments, adding a playful and textured element to the finished garment.

Construction Technique

This shawl is constructed using a unique two-wedge method that creates a seamless design without any sewing required. The first wedge is knit from bottom up, while the second wedge is knit from side to side. Stitches are picked up between the two wedges to join them seamlessly. Short rows are strategically placed along the bottom edge of the shawl to create shaping and structure. The designer recommends carrying alternating color yarn up the sides during construction to maintain color continuity and a polished appearance.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Stockinette stitch - creates smooth, flat fabric in alternating stripes
• Garter stitch - produces textured ridges that contrast with stockinette sections
• Kfb (knit front and back) - an increase stitch used for shaping the wedges
• Sl1wyif (slip one with yarn in front) - creates a neat, finished edge
• Short rows - used along the bottom edge for shaping
• Picked up stitches - used to seamlessly join the two wedges
• Stitch markers - help track pattern repeats and increases

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: Approximately 800 yards of fingering weight yarn (4-ply). The sample shown uses Old Rusted Chair, Single Sock, Bijou, C2, Get Off My Cloud colorways in 100% Superwash Merino fiber, which provides durability and easy care.

Needles: US size 4 (6.0mm) needles are required for this project.

Notions: Stitch markers are essential for tracking the pattern. A cardboard pom-maker is needed to create the decorative pompoms that embellish the finished shawl.

Gauge: After blocking, the gauge is 40 stitches and 44 rows over 4 inches in garter stitch. The designer notes that gauge is not critical for this garment, making it a forgiving project for knitters who may have slight variations in their tension.

Difficulty Level

This project is rated as intermediate difficulty. While the basic stitches are relatively straightforward, the two-wedge construction method, picked-up stitches, and short row shaping require some experience and attention to pattern instructions. The seamless construction and lack of finishing work make this an appealing project for intermediate knitters looking to expand their skills.