Square Route

Square Route Shawl by Mary Annarella

What Is Being Made

Square Route is a seamless, modular knit shawl designed by Mary Annarella. This intermediate-level knitting project features a modern construction that begins with three separate squares that are gradually connected to each other throughout the knitting process. The shawl is worked in three colors, creating visual interest while maintaining the simplicity of garter stitch throughout. The design is described as perfect for vacation knitting, combining portability with engaging construction techniques.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The Square Route shawl employs a modular knitting approach where three individual squares serve as the foundation. Rather than being knitted separately and seamed together, these squares are gradually joined to each other during the knitting process, creating a seamless final garment. This construction method keeps the knitting process engaging and dynamic while avoiding traditional seaming. The pattern includes a construction tutorial that provides an overview of how the three squares are systematically connected, making the process clear and accessible for intermediate knitters. A color-me graphic is also provided to assist knitters in selecting their own color combinations.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout Square Route is garter stitch, which is created by knitting every row on both the right and wrong sides. Garter stitch is known for its soothing, meditative quality and its reversible texture. In this design, the garter stitch is elevated beyond its traditional appearance through the modular construction and three-color work, resulting in a modern aesthetic. The repetitive nature of garter stitch makes it ideal for portable vacation knitting while the construction keeps the project mentally engaging.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

Square Route is designed for fingering weight yarn (4-ply), specifically La Bien Aimeé Merino Singles. The pattern calls for:

• Main Color (MC): 2 skeins of La Bien Aimeé Merino Singles (400 yds per 100g skein), approximately 750 yards total. The example shown uses Ghost.
• Contrast Color 1 (CC1): 1 skein of La Bien Aimeé Merino Singles (400 yds per 100g skein), approximately 315 yards. The example shown uses Yellow Brick Road.
• Contrast Color 2 (CC2): 1 skein of La Bien Aimeé Merino Singles (400 yds per 100g skein), approximately 370 yards. The example shown uses Direwolf.

Any fingering weight yarn with similar yardage and characteristics can be substituted. A Size 5 (3.75 mm) circular needle measuring 24 inches or 32 inches is required, or a needle size adjusted to achieve the specified gauge.

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20.5 stitches and 36 rows per 4 inches when worked in garter stitch on a Size 5 needle, measured after blocking. Achieving proper gauge is essential for the shawl to reach its intended finished dimensions. Blocking the completed shawl will even out the garter stitch texture and set the final shape.