Soundwave

Soundwave Asymmetrical Shawl by Meghan Jackson

What Is Being Made

Soundwave is an asymmetrical shawl designed by independent knitwear designer Meghan Jackson. This modern accessory features a unique angular shape with wavy stripes throughout, creating visual movement and contemporary appeal. The sample shawl measures 72 inches (183 cm) in length and 13 inches (33 cm) at its widest point, though the pattern is customizable to suit individual preferences. The asymmetrical construction and distinctive silhouette make Soundwave a versatile go-to piece suitable for various occasions and styling options.

Knitting Techniques

Soundwave employs three primary knitting techniques that work together to create its distinctive appearance and structure. The shawl is knit sideways, meaning you begin at one edge and work toward the opposite edge rather than from top to bottom. This sideways construction is combined with bias knitting, which angles the fabric diagonally and contributes to the shawl's asymmetrical shape. The wavy stripe pattern is integrated throughout the design, adding visual interest and a modern aesthetic to the finished piece. This combination of techniques results in a garment that is described as fun to knit while remaining accessible in terms of wearability.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used in Soundwave is garter stitch, a fundamental knitting technique created by knitting every row. Garter stitch provides a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges that contribute to the shawl's visual appeal. The gauge for this pattern is 24 stitches and 34 rows in garter stitch over a 4-inch (10 cm) square when relaxed after blocking, establishing the tension needed for proper sizing and drape.

Materials and Yarn

Soundwave is designed to work with 4-ply yarn weight, offering flexibility in fiber choice. The pattern sample showcases two distinct yarn options:

• The Uncommon Thread, Super Sock: 100% superwash merino fiber with approximately 400 yards (365 meters) per 100 grams; one skein in the Confetti colorway
• Twisted Fiber Art, Ariel Evolutions: 100% merino fiber with approximately 340 yards (310 meters) per 70 grams; one skein in the Bookworm colorway

Both yarn options are premium merino blends suitable for creating a soft, wearable shawl. The superwash treatment on the Super Sock option adds practical care benefits for everyday wear.

Tools and Equipment

Soundwave requires US #6 (4.00 mm) needles, which may be either circular or straight needles depending on knitter preference. A yarn needle is needed for weaving in ends upon completion of the project.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as advanced, reflecting the complexity of the asymmetrical shawl construction and the combination of sideways, bias, and striped knitting techniques. While the core stitchwork relies on garter stitch—a beginner-friendly technique—the overall pattern execution and shaping require experienced knitting skills and understanding of garment construction principles.