Skuld

Skuld Lace Shawl by Anna Dalvi

Project Overview

The Skuld is an advanced-level lace shawl designed by Anna Dalvi. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a triangular wrap with generous dimensions, measuring approximately 195 cm in width and 70 cm in height when blocked. The design combines classic lace techniques with a structured construction, making it an elegant accessory suitable for experienced knitters seeking a challenging and rewarding project.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a large lace shawl worked from a small number of cast-on stitches that gradually expand through strategic increases and lace patterning. The finished piece is a triangular wrap designed to drape beautifully across the shoulders or worn as a statement accessory. The shawl's substantial size and intricate lace details make it a sophisticated garment suitable for special occasions or everyday elegance.

Techniques Used

• Top-down construction: The shawl begins with a small cast-on of 4 stitches and expands outward through increases worked into the lace pattern
• Lace knitting: The pattern incorporates charted lace motifs that create openwork designs throughout the fabric
• Chart reading: The pattern is provided as a knitting chart where only right-side (forward) rows are charted; knitters read the chart from right to left
• Garter stitch edges: Selvage stitches maintain neat edges by working 2 stitches in garter stitch on each side of every row
• Blocking: The finished shawl requires blocking to achieve the stated dimensions and to open up the lace pattern fully

Stitches and Stitch Abbreviations

The pattern uses standard knitting abbreviations represented in the chart. Key stitches include knit stitches, yarn overs (which create the characteristic lace holes), and decreases that shape the lace motifs. Every wrong-side (return) row is worked consistently: knit the first 2 stitches, purl across to the final 2 stitches, then knit the last 2 stitches. This maintains the garter stitch border while allowing the lace pattern to develop on the right side.

Materials Required

Yarn: Approximately 1 skein of Sanguine Gryphon "Sappho II" (100% Merino wool, approximately 402 meters per 100 grams) or any yarn with similar yardage and weight characteristics. The pattern specifies 4-ply yarn weight, which provides the appropriate drape and stitch definition for the lace design.

Needles and Notions: One circular knitting needle in size 4.00 mm (US size 6) for working the shawl, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends after completion.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as advanced, requiring solid experience with lace knitting, chart reading, and shaping techniques. Knitters should be comfortable interpreting charted instructions and managing multiple increases across rows while maintaining lace pattern integrity.