#fubc Shawl No.2

FUBC Shawl No.2 by Tess Young

What is Being Made

FUBC Shawl No.2 is a knitted shawl designed by Tess Young, created as part of a fundraising initiative for cancer charity. This intermediate-level knitting project begins with just 2 stitches and is worked side to side, with the edging integrated into the main construction. The finished shawl showcases beautiful color work through strategic yarn pairing.

Knitting Techniques Used

This shawl employs several key knitting techniques suitable for intermediate crafters. The pattern features striped garter stitch construction, which creates visual interest through alternating colors while maintaining the textured appearance of garter stitch. The side-to-side working method allows the shawl to grow horizontally, and the integral edging means the border is created as part of the main fabric rather than added separately. The pattern also incorporates blocking as an essential finishing step, which significantly impacts the final gauge and drape of the completed piece.

Stitches Used

• Garter stitch – the primary stitch structure, worked flat on circular needles
• Striped garter stitch – garter stitch worked with alternating yarn colors for visual pattern

Materials and Specifications

This shawl is designed to be worked in sport weight yarn. The recommended yarn is Susan Crawford Ghyll, a 100% Lancashire Lonk wool available in 300-meter (328-yard) skeins per 100 grams. The pattern calls for 2 skeins total: one skein in shade Jo (main color) and one skein in shade Natural (contrasting color).

Needles required: 4.5mm (US 7) circular needle, 60cm in length. Knitters should verify their gauge before beginning and may need to adjust needle size if necessary to achieve the correct tension.

Gauge Information

Gauge is critical for this project and varies significantly before and after blocking. Before blocking: 21 stitches and 38 rows equal 10cm (4 inches) over striped garter stitch knitted flat. After blocking: 19 stitches and 33 rows equal 10cm (4 inches) over garter stitch knitted flat. These gauges were obtained using 4.5mm needles.

Pattern Context

FUBC Shawl No.2 holds special significance as one of two shawl patterns designed in response to a personal health journey. Originally created to raise funds for a local cancer charity, these two patterns together raised over £2000 for the organization. Due to continued demand, both patterns are now available for purchase again, allowing crafters to support the charitable cause while creating a beautiful handmade shawl.