Lettuce Wrap

Lettuce Wrap Shawl by Paula Marie Designs

Project Overview

The Lettuce Wrap is an asymmetrical triangle shawl designed by Paula Marie Designs, perfect for adding a pop of color in spring or any season. This intermediate-level knitting project is worked in one piece from one edge to the other, creating a sophisticated garment with elegant lace detailing.

Finished Dimensions

The completed shawl measures 62 inches long by 36 inches wide, with an angled edge spanning 54 inches. These generous proportions make it suitable for layering or wearing as a statement accessory.

Construction Technique

This shawl employs a directional construction method, increasing on one side every other row to create the asymmetrical triangle shape. The design features a twin lace leaf pattern running along the edge, adding visual interest and texture to the finished piece. The structured increase pattern combined with the lace motif creates a balanced, wearable design.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Knit (k) - fundamental knit stitch
• Purl (p) - fundamental purl stitch
• Yarn over (yo) - creates decorative eyelets essential to the lace leaf pattern
• Knit into front and back (kfb) - increase technique used for directional shaping
• Knit 3 together (k3tog) - decrease stitch for lace shaping
• Slip, Slip, Slip, Knit (sssk) - alternative decrease method for lace definition
• Stitch markers - used to track pattern repeats and construction sections

Materials Required

Yarn: Any worsted weight yarn works for this project. The sample shown uses Malabrigo Rios in the Lettuce colorway, requiring approximately 420 yards (384 meters), typically about 2 skeins.

Needles: US #8 (5mm) circular needles in 22-28 inch (56-71 cm) length to accommodate the growing number of stitches.

Additional supplies: 4 stitch markers, blocking materials, and tape measurer for accurate gauge and finished measurements.

Gauge Information

Accurate gauge is essential for achieving the intended finished dimensions. The pattern specifies:

• Before blocking: 16 stitches by 22 rows over 4 x 4 inches
• After blocking: 14 stitches by 20 rows over 4 x 4 inches

Blocking significantly impacts the final measurements, opening up the lace pattern and creating the intended drape and dimensions of the finished shawl.

Skill Level

Rated as intermediate difficulty, the Lettuce Wrap requires familiarity with basic knitting techniques, lace construction, and the ability to work with stitch markers and follow a pattern chart. The combination of increases, decreases, and yarn overs demands attention to detail and understanding of how these techniques interact to create the lace leaf motif.