Pettine

Pettine Shawl by Corrina Ferguson

What is Being Made

The Pettine is a knitted shawl designed by Corrina Ferguson. This is a triangular or crescent-shaped shawl that measures 62 inches (157.5 cm) wide and 22 inches (56 cm) deep at the center after blocking. The design is suitable for knitters with intermediate skills and offers flexibility in sizing, allowing crafters to adjust the finished dimensions based on their yarn choice and needle selection.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Pettine shawl employs several key knitting techniques to create its structure and visual interest. Lace increases are central to the pattern, worked using a Lace Increase Chart that guides the shaping of the shawl. The pattern incorporates double yarnovers (yo2), which are specialty yarn-over increases that create decorative openings in the fabric. These double yarnovers are worked as knit-one, purl-one into the double yarnover on the following row, adding textural variation to the piece.

The shawl is designed to be adjustable in size. Crafters are encouraged to use a larger needle than typically suggested for their yarn weight to achieve a nice, flowy fabric. The pattern notes that the Lace Increase Chart should be finished after Row 8 using slightly less than half of the available yarn, as the second half of the project requires slightly more yardage than the first half.

Stitches Used

• Garter stitch – the foundation stitch used throughout the shawl, created by knitting every row for a textured, reversible fabric
• Yarn overs (yo) – used to create lace patterns and decorative increases
• Double yarn overs (yo2) – specialty increases that form larger openings in the lace pattern
• Knit front and back (kfb) – an increase stitch used in shaping
• Bind off (BO) – used to finish edges and secure stitches

Materials and Gauge

The Pettine shawl is designed to be worked in Malabrigo Sock yarn, a 100% merino wool yarn that provides softness and elasticity ideal for lace shawls. One skein is required, which contains 440 yards (400 meters) per 3.5 ounces (100 grams). The recommended yarn color is Indiecita.

The pattern calls for US #6 (4.0 mm) needles, though crafters are encouraged to adjust needle size to achieve the desired gauge and fabric drape. The recommended gauge is 18 stitches and 26 rows equals 4 inches (10 cm) in blocked garter stitch. Additional materials needed include stitch markers, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and blocking supplies to set the finished shawl to its final dimensions.

Yarn Weight Considerations

This pattern is compatible with both 3-ply and 4-ply yarn weights, offering versatility for crafters working with different yarn options. The adjustable nature of the design means that knitters can substitute yarns of similar yardage and weight while maintaining the shawl's essential structure and drape.