Neverwhere

Neverwhere Shawl by Melanie Berg

Project Overview

Neverwhere is an advanced-level knitted shawl pattern designed by independent designer Melanie Berg. This elongated semi-circular shawl combines mysterious mock cables, brioche stitches, and strategic short row shaping to create a garment with exceptional textural depth and visual interest. The timeless silhouette and sophisticated construction techniques make this pattern ideal for experienced knitters seeking a challenging and rewarding project.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces an elegant semi-circular shawl with a generous wingspan of 102 inches (260 cm) along the top edge and a width of 18 inches (46 cm). The shawl's elongated shape and substantial dimensions make it suitable for draping elegantly across the shoulders or wearing as a statement accessory piece.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Mock Cables: Mysterious cable-like textures created through strategic stitch manipulation without the traditional cable needle method, adding visual complexity and sophistication to the fabric.
• Brioche Stitches: Sultry brioche knitting techniques create distinctive raised textures and luxurious fabric qualities throughout the design.
• Short Row Shaping: Strategic short rows are employed to shape the semi-circular silhouette and create dimensional construction that sets this pattern apart from traditional shawl designs.

Stitches and Abbreviations

• k - knit stitch
• k2tog - knit two stitches together (decrease)

Materials and Specifications

Recommended Yarn: Julie Asselin Fino Simple, a premium blend composed of 75% Merino, 15% Cashmere, and 10% Silk. This dream-soft yarn provides the ideal hand and drape for showcasing the pattern's intricate textures.

Yarn Quantity: 2 skeins totaling 202 grams and 703 yards (643 meters). The sample shown uses the colorway "Confiture."

Needles: US 6 (4.0 mm) circular needles measuring 47 inches (120 cm) or longer, allowing adequate space for the shawl's substantial stitch count.

Yarn Weight: 4-ply yarn weight, providing excellent stitch definition for displaying the complex mock cable and brioche textures.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as advanced, making it suitable for experienced knitters who are comfortable with complex stitch techniques, reading intricate pattern instructions, and managing the construction methods required for successful completion.