Tortoiseshell

Tortoiseshell Triangular Shawl by Tin Can Knits

Project Overview

Tortoiseshell is a downloadable knitting pattern for a large, textural lace shawl designed to provide maximum comfort and coziness. This intermediate-level triangular shawl features organic flowing lines created through lace stitch work, offering both visual interest and a luxurious drape suitable for wrapping up in style.

What Is Being Made

A generous triangular shawl with impressive finished dimensions of approximately 79 inches across the wingspan and 32 inches deep at the lace edge. The shawl is constructed from centre back down to centre back, creating a symmetrical wrap that can be worn in multiple ways for versatility and comfort.

Construction Technique

The shawl begins with a small stockinette rectangle worked from a provisional cast-on of 3 stitches. The pattern instructs knitters to work rows 1 and 2 a total of 4 times (8 rows total) before turning the work 90 degrees and picking up stitches along the stockinette edge. Stitches from the provisional cast-on are then returned to the needles, creating the foundation for the expanding triangular shape. The set-up row establishes stitch markers to organize the pattern sections, with specific placement for edge stitches and central pattern areas.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns Used

• Stockinette stitch – used for the initial rectangular foundation
• Lace stitch pattern – features flowing organic lines that weave in and out, creating the textured effect throughout the main body of the shawl
• Garter stitch – used for edge stitches to provide structure and definition
• Knit and purl combinations – worked in specific sequences to establish the lace pattern and maintain shaping

Materials Required

Yarn: Approximately 700 yards of DK or worsted weight yarn. The sample shown in the pattern was knit using The Border Mill Alpaca PM, which provides the delicious drape characteristic of alpaca fiber and contributes to the shawl's luxurious feel and fluid movement.

Needles: Appropriate needles for DK weight yarn (specific needle size should be confirmed in the full pattern documentation).

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate, making it suitable for knitters with some experience who are comfortable working with lace stitches, picking up stitches, and managing stitch markers. The flowing lace pattern requires attention to detail but rewards knitters with a beautiful, professional-looking finished piece.