Neptunes Net

Neptune's Net Knitting Shawl by Rebecca Hill

What is Being Made

Neptune's Net is an advanced-level knitting shawl pattern designed by independent designer Rebecca Hill. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a lovely lace shawl suitable for experienced knitters seeking a sophisticated project with intricate stitch work and shaping.

Craft and Primary Technique

This pattern is designed for knitting, the primary craft method. The shawl is constructed using circular needle knitting techniques, allowing for seamless construction and the ability to work in the round or flat depending on the shawl's design structure. The pattern incorporates lace-work sections that require careful attention to stitch placement and marker management throughout the project.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques Used

Neptune's Net employs several fundamental and decorative knitting stitches to create its design:

• Knit (K) - The basic knit stitch forms the foundation of the fabric
• Purl (P) - Purl stitches create texture and pattern variation
• Yarn Over (YO) - Creates deliberate openings and lace effects characteristic of shawl patterns
• Knit Front and Back (KFB) - An increase technique that adds stitches while creating subtle texture
• Purl Front and Back (PFB) - A purl-based increase technique for shaping and texture

The pattern specifically features a lace section that requires precise stitch marker placement and management. Knitters will move and manage markers throughout this section, making attention to pattern notes essential for success.

Materials and Tools Required

This shawl pattern requires the following materials and equipment:

• Yarn: Dream in Color Smooshy in the Bermuda Teal colorway, 1 skein total. This yarn is a 4-ply weight, providing a delicate, refined fabric suitable for lace shawl construction
• Needles: US Size 6 circular needle, 29 inches or longer in length, to accommodate the expanding shawl width
• Stitch Markers: Either 2 locking stitch markers combined with 4 non-locking stitch markers, or 4 non-locking stitch markers total. Locking markers are used in sections where they will be moved and repositioned, while non-locking markers are placed and removed as indicated throughout the pattern
• Additional Tools: A yarn needle for weaving in ends upon completion, and approximately 180 blocking pins for finishing and shaping the completed shawl (quantity may vary based on personal blocking preferences)

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as advanced difficulty, making it ideal for experienced knitters who are comfortable with lace techniques, stitch marker management, and reading complex pattern instructions. The combination of yarn overs, increases, and careful marker placement requires strong foundational knitting skills and attention to detail.