Spring Break

Spring Break Shawl by Sandrine Audelin

Design Overview

Spring Break is a triangular shawl design created by independent designer Sandrine Audelin, perfect for transitional seasons between late winter and early spring. This knitted shawl combines warmth with elegant drape, making it versatile enough to wear directly on bare shoulders or layered over a trench coat for added sophistication.

Construction Method

The shawl is worked side to side, meaning the knitter begins at one edge and works horizontally across to gradually build the triangular shape. This construction method allows for controlled increases along one edge while maintaining the I-cord border detail throughout the project.

Key Knitting Techniques

• I-Cord Edge: An I-cord finish is worked along the right edge of the shawl, creating a neat, finished border that prevents curling and adds structural integrity to the piece.
• Increasing: Strategic increases along the right edge build the triangular silhouette as the shawl expands from the starting edge to the finished dimensions.
• Two-Color Knitting: The design alternates between two colors throughout the pattern. Rather than cutting the yarn between color changes, the unused color is carried along the I-cord edge, picked up every two rows to minimize ends and simplify finishing.
• Lace Section: A lace pattern section is incorporated into the design. When transitioning from the lace section to subsequent sections, the yarn is passed along the I-cord without being cut, then picked up again as needed, requiring careful tension management to avoid pulling.

Stitches and Pattern Elements

While specific stitch abbreviations are not detailed in the provided content, the shawl incorporates lace stitchwork alongside solid knit sections. The combination of these stitch patterns creates visual interest and contributes to the shawl's elegant appearance. The I-cord edge requires basic I-cord technique, a foundational skill in shawl construction.

Yarn and Materials

This design calls for Aran weight yarn, specifically La Bien Aimée Merino Aran, a wool blend noted for its pleasant working properties and exceptional softness. Aran weight provides sufficient warmth for shoulder wear while remaining light enough for layering. The merino content ensures comfort against the skin and excellent drape characteristics that enhance the shawl's triangular silhouette.

Knitters will require needles appropriate for Aran weight yarn (typically US 8-10 / 5-6mm depending on desired gauge) and a crochet hook or cable needle for I-cord work.

Project Specifications

Spring Break is offered in one size with a finished triangular shape suitable for most wearers. The downloadable PDF format allows knitters to print and reference the pattern at their convenience.