Bessarion Shawl

Bessarion Shawl by Laura Chau

Project Overview

The Bessarion Shawl is a cozy elongated triangle shawl designed by Laura Chau and worked from the point upward to the wide bind-off edge. This intermediate-level knitting project combines decorative stitch techniques with practical construction, resulting in a warm and stylish accessory. The finished shawl measures 36 inches (91.5 centimeters) at the wide end and 78 inches (198 centimeters) in total length, making it a generous wrap suitable for layering and warmth.

Stitch Techniques and Construction

The Bessarion Shawl showcases two primary stitch patterns that work together to create visual interest and texture. The straight side of the shawl features a column of leaves that are shaped using strategic increases and decreases to form defined leaf motifs. This decorative element draws the eye along the length of the shawl.

The remainder of the shawl is worked in a double yarnover lattice stitch, which creates an open, airy mesh pattern characteristic of lace and semi-lace shawl designs. This stitch pattern is both visually striking and relatively straightforward to execute, making it accessible to intermediate knitters. The lattice construction allows the shawl to drape beautifully while maintaining structural integrity.

The shawl is finished with applied I-cord edges, a technique that adds a refined, polished border. I-cord is a small tubular knitted cord that is worked separately and then sewn or knitted directly onto the edges of the finished piece, providing both aesthetic appeal and reinforcement.

Yarn and Materials

The Bessarion Shawl is designed to work with chunky-weight and heavy worsted-weight yarns, which contribute to the quick completion time and cozy warmth of the finished project. The pattern specifies approximately 800 yards of yarn total.

The shawl shown in the pattern photograph was knitted using Drops Air yarn in Ruby Red (mix 07), which requires 5 skeins at 164 yards (150 meters) per 50-gram skein. Drops Air is composed of 65% alpaca, 28% polyamide, and 7% wool, creating a soft and fluffy fiber blend that delivers warmth without excessive weight. This fiber content makes the yarn particularly suitable for the chunky-weight category and contributes to the luxurious feel of the finished shawl.

Needles and Gauge

The pattern calls for a 6mm (US size 10) circular needle measuring 32 to 40 inches (80 to 100 centimeters) in length. The circular needle accommodates the increasing width of the shawl as it grows from point to bind-off edge.

The gauge for the Bessarion Shawl is 12 stitches and 16 rows over a 4-inch (10-centimeter) square when worked in the mesh stitch pattern. Achieving proper gauge is important for obtaining the correct finished dimensions and ensuring the shawl drapes as intended.

Additional notions required include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and applying the I-cord edges.

Pattern Structure and Skill Level

The Bessarion Shawl is rated as an intermediate-level knitting project, suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are comfortable working with stitch patterns, increases, decreases, and shaping techniques. The combination of leaf motifs and lattice stitching requires attention to pattern instructions and the ability to recognize stitch patterns as they develop on the needles.

The pattern includes a repeat section (Rows 19-30) that is worked multiple times to achieve the desired length, allowing knitters to customize the finished dimensions by adjusting the number of repeats. This flexibility makes the pattern adaptable to personal preferences while maintaining the essential design elements.