Slight Return

Slight Return Shawlette by Alice Twain

What is Being Made

Slight Return is a shawlette design created by independent designer Alice Twain. This knitted shawl is engineered with strategic increases that create a gently wrapped silhouette. The design features a slightly raised center top that provides better coverage of the nape of the neck when worn centered, while elongated and curved wings wrap softly around the shoulders. This shawlette is ideal as a first shawl project for knitters new to shawl construction.

Design and Construction Techniques

The shawlette employs a two-section increase strategy that defines its shape and proportions. The first section features four increases in each two-row repeat, while the second section increases to six increases per two-row repeat. This proportional difference in increase frequency creates the longer, more dramatic wing sections in the second half of the garment, producing an asymmetrical silhouette that drapes elegantly.

The pattern offers flexibility in finishing options, allowing knitters to choose between two distinct border treatments:

• An easy lace pattern border for added visual interest and delicate detailing
• A simple garter stitch border for a clean, minimalist aesthetic

Stitches and Techniques

This intermediate-level pattern incorporates fundamental shawl construction methods centered on strategic yarn-over increases to achieve shaping. The border options introduce knitters to either basic lace stitch work or the foundational garter stitch technique, making this an educational project for developing knitting skills.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Slight Return is designed to be knitted in worsted weight yarn, which allows the shawlette to knit up quickly and easily. The worsted weight provides excellent stitch definition and drape suitable for shawl construction. The pattern calls for mercerized yarn, which offers enhanced sheen and durability. Knitters will require appropriate needles for worsted weight yarn to achieve proper gauge and fabric characteristics.

Skill Level and Project Suitability

Classified as an intermediate difficulty pattern, Slight Return serves as an accessible entry point into shawl knitting. The straightforward increase sequences and optional simple border variations make it manageable for knitters progressing beyond basic garment construction, while the worsted weight yarn and fast knit-up time provide satisfying project momentum.