Gull Wings Scarf

Gull Wings Scarf by Susan Lowman

What is Being Made

The Gull Wings Scarf is an elegant knitted accessory inspired by the classic Elizabeth Zimmermann PI Shawl with Gull Wings design. This downloadable knitting pattern offers two finished size options to suit different preferences and styling needs. The small size measures approximately 6 inches wide by 54 inches long, while the large size measures approximately 9 1/4 inches wide by 54 inches long. Both versions create a versatile scarf suitable for various occasions and wardrobe applications.

Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level knitting project employs the gull wings stitch pattern as its primary decorative technique. The gull wings motif creates a distinctive visual texture that references the renowned Elizabeth Zimmermann design tradition. The pattern utilizes fundamental knitting techniques including yarn overs, decreases, and stockinette stitch sections to build the scarf structure. The combination of these techniques produces the characteristic wing-like lace elements that define this design.

Stitches Used

The Gull Wings Scarf incorporates several essential knitting stitches to achieve its finished appearance:

• Knit (K) – the basic foundation stitch used throughout the pattern
• Purl (P) – used in combination with knit stitches for texture variation
• Yarn Over (YO) – creates the openwork and lace elements characteristic of the gull wings pattern
• Knit 2 Together (K2tog) – a right-leaning decrease that shapes the scarf and creates the wing motifs
• Slip, Slip, Knit (SSK) – a left-leaning decrease used for balanced shaping
• Pass Slipped Stitch Over (Psso) – an alternative decrease technique employed in the pattern
• Stockinette Stitch – used as a base stitch in sections of the design

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The pattern provides specific yarn recommendations for each size option. For the small size, the design calls for Patons Kroy Socks yarn, a 3-ply weight option, requiring 2 balls of the colorway #54006 Whitecap (with approximately 2.5 ounces or 72 grams used). For the large size, Patons Lace yarn, a 4-ply weight option, is specified, requiring 1 ball of colorway #33315 Sachet (with approximately 2.6 ounces or 72 grams used).

Construction requires US Size 4 (3.5mm) knitting needles or the size necessary to achieve proper gauge. An optional stitch marker may be used to help track pattern repeats and construction sections.

Gauge and Pattern Notes

The pattern specifies a gauge of 23 stitches and 32 rows measured over 4 inches in either stockinette stitch or the gull wings stitch pattern. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished dimensions. The pattern includes comprehensive abbreviations and repeat instructions to guide knitters through the construction process, with bracketed sections indicating specific directional sequences to follow.

Pattern design © 2014 The Crochet Architect. All rights reserved.