Storm Warning

Storm Warning Triangular Shawl by Liz Corke

Project Overview

Storm Warning is an advanced-level triangular shawl designed by Liz Corke, worked sideways using the knitting craft. This downloadable PDF pattern is ideal for knitters seeking to showcase premium yarn in a sophisticated, wearable design. The shawl measures 162cm long and features a thoughtfully constructed combination of stitch techniques that create visual interest and elegant drape.

Construction and Design Features

This sideways-worked triangular shawl combines multiple knitting techniques to create a balanced, visually striking garment. The design showcases three distinct stitch elements that work together harmoniously:

• Plaited Cable Border: A decorative cable detail that frames the shawl and adds textural interest along the edges
• Garter Stitch Body: The main body of the shawl is worked in garter stitch, a fundamental knitting stitch that creates horizontal ridges and provides stability to the triangular structure
• Delicate Lace Border with Eyelet Edging: A refined lace section featuring eyelet details that creates an airy, feminine finish

Optional Beading

The pattern includes optional beading embellishment using size 6/0 beads (approximately 418 beads, weighing around 40g). Beads are placed using a 0.75mm crochet hook or alternative method, allowing knitters to customize the shawl's final appearance. This optional feature adds sparkle and sophistication for special occasions.

Pattern Format and Instructions

The downloadable PDF includes both charted instructions and written instructions, accommodating different learning preferences. Knitters can follow either format depending on their comfort level with chart reading or written directions.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for 400 yards of 4-ply weight yarn. The recommended yarn is Old Maiden Aunt Merino/Silk, a luxury blend containing 50% Merino wool and 50% silk (400 yards per 100g skein). This yarn weight and fiber content create excellent stitch definition for showcasing the cable and lace details.

Required Materials:

• 400 yards of 4-ply weight yarn (Old Maiden Aunt Merino/Silk recommended)
• 4mm (US 6) circular needles, 24 inches long
• Stitch marker
• Cable needle
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends
• Blocking mat and pins for finishing
• 0.75mm (US 14) crochet hook (for optional bead placement)
• 418 size 6/0 beads, optional (approximately 40g)

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 26 stitches and 43 rows over 10cm (4 inches) measured in garter stitch. However, the pattern notes that gauge is not essential for successful completion. The shawl's finished size is easily adjustable based on available yarn quantity. Variations in gauge will affect both the final dimensions and the amount of yarn consumed, making this pattern flexible for different yarn amounts and knitter preferences.

Skill Level

Storm Warning is rated as an advanced knitting project, suitable for experienced knitters comfortable with cable techniques, lace knitting, chart reading, and shaping. The combination of plaited cables, garter stitch, and delicate lace requires solid foundational skills and attention to stitch placement.

Best Uses

This shawl design is particularly well-suited for displaying special, one-of-a-kind yarn skeins to their best advantage. The sideways construction and triangular shape create elegant drape, making it appropriate for both everyday wear and special occasions, especially when enhanced with optional beading.