Kurkuma

Kurkuma Shawlette by Susanne Visch

What is Being Made

Kurkuma is a shallow triangle shawl, designed as a versatile layering piece. This shawlette features the characteristic shallow silhouette of a triangle scarf, making it an elegant accessory suitable for draping across the shoulders or wearing as a decorative wrap. The design draws inspiration from the lace knitting traditions of the Shetland Isles, bringing timeless heritage techniques into a contemporary, wearable garment.

Construction Method

This shawl is worked sideways in one continuous piece, a construction technique that creates a unique flow to the finished garment. The triangle edging is integrated into the body of the shawlette and worked simultaneously, rather than being added separately. Increases and decreases are strategically placed on one side only, occurring every fourth row to shape the shallow triangle form as the piece grows. This sideways construction method allows for a seamless integration of the decorative border with the main body of the shawl.

Lace Techniques and Stitches

Kurkuma showcases authentic lace knitting techniques rooted in Shetland tradition. The lace patterning is worked as true lace knitting, meaning the lace motifs are created on both right-side and wrong-side rows, requiring attentive stitch work throughout the entire piece. The pattern provides comprehensive support for lace knitters at all levels, offering both fully written-out instructions and charted patterns for the lace sections, allowing knitters to choose their preferred method of following the design.

The body of the shawl is worked entirely in garter stitch, the fundamental knit stitch created by knitting every row. Garter stitch provides a stable, textured foundation that allows the lace border to become the focal point of the design. This combination of garter stitch body with lace edging creates visual contrast and highlights the intricate lace work.

Yarn and Materials

Kurkuma is designed to be worked in a 3-ply lace weight or light fingering weight wool yarn. The pattern calls for approximately 500 meters (546 yards) of yarn weighing 100 grams, though 250 meters (273 yards) per 50 grams is also acceptable. The original design was created using Ístex Einband, a 100% wool yarn that provides the ideal weight and drape for this project. Knitters are encouraged to substitute any heavy lace weight or light fingering weight wool yarn of similar yardage and weight specifications.

Gauge and Finished Fabric

Kurkuma is worked at a loose gauge, which contributes to the airy, delicate character of the finished shawl. This looser tension creates an open, breathable fabric that drapes beautifully and makes the shawlette an ideal layering piece for transitional seasons or as an elegant accent to any outfit.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience in lace work and shawl construction. The combination of garter stitch body and true lace knitting on both sides requires attention to detail and familiarity with reading charts and written lace instructions, but the straightforward sideways construction and the designer's comprehensive pattern support make it an achievable project for dedicated intermediate-level knitters.

Pattern Format

Kurkuma is available as a downloadable PDF pattern, providing immediate access to the complete design instructions, charts, and materials information. The PDF format allows knitters to print the pattern for easy reference while working or to view it digitally on their devices.