Wailea

Wailea Shawl by Melissa Leapman

What is Being Made

Wailea is a triangular knit shawl designed by Melissa Leapman, finished to approximately 105 x 73 x 46 inches when blocked. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a large, versatile wrap suitable for layering or wearing as a statement piece.

Craft and Techniques

This design is executed entirely through knitting, utilizing fundamental shawl construction methods. The pattern employs strategic decreasing and yarn over increases to shape the triangular silhouette. Key techniques include k2tog (knit two together) decreases worked on right-side rows to create the tapered edges, and yarn over increases positioned throughout to add width and create lace details. The shawl is worked from the top down or in sections, with careful attention to gauge to ensure proper blocking and final dimensions.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch — the foundation stitch providing smooth texture and drape
• Yarn overs — creating decorative eyelet details and increasing stitches for shaping
• K2tog (knit two together) — decreasing stitches to form the triangular silhouette
• Garter stitch elements — implied in edge stitches (k1 at beginning and end of rows)

Materials and Specifications

The pattern calls for Anzula Yarn's Vera in sportweight (65% silk/35% linen blend), with three coordinating colorways: Paprika (A), Floradora (B), and Blueberry (C). One hank of each color is required; each hank contains 365 yards and weighs 4 ounces. A US size 6 (4 mm) circular knitting needle is used, with the specific size adjusted as needed to achieve the required gauge. The recommended gauge is 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch when blocked, making accurate gauge checking essential for this project.

Pattern Structure

The shawl incorporates multiple stitch patterns (Pattern A and Pattern B) worked in charted and written-instruction formats. The patterns alternate between right-side rows featuring decreases and wrong-side rows featuring yarn overs and purl stitches, creating a balanced construction that maintains shaping while building decorative texture throughout the piece.