Surfacing

Surfacing Shawl by Glenna C

What is Being Made

Surfacing is an elegant, shallow triangular shawl designed to showcase luxury fingering weight yarn as a sophisticated accessory. This top-down knit pattern is specifically crafted to highlight the beauty of premium yarns like Sundara silky cashmere, allowing the fiber's natural qualities to become the focal point of the finished piece. The completed shawl measures approximately 50 inches in width and 12 inches in height at the centre, making it a versatile accessory suitable for draping over shoulders or wearing as a decorative wrap.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The Surfacing shawl employs a straightforward top-down construction method that begins with simple stockinette stitch before transitioning into lace patterning. This approach allows knitters to work from a small number of stitches at the top and gradually increase to the full width, creating the characteristic shallow triangle shape. The pattern progression from basic stockinette to lace elements provides a pleasant rhythm throughout the knitting process, making it an engaging intermediate-level project that balances simplicity with visual interest.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch – Forms the initial section of the shawl, providing a smooth, classic foundation
• Lace Patterns – Two simple lace stitch patterns create flowing, delicate details that showcase the yarn's drape and sheen

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: The pattern is designed for Sundara Fingering Silky Cashmere, a luxury blend containing 65% white cashmere and 35% silk. One skein is required, with yardage of approximately 385–420 yards (50g/100g skein weight). The sample shown features the 'peace' colourway from the 'colour commentary' series. The cashmere and silk blend provides exceptional softness and a luxurious drape ideal for showcasing in a shawl format.

Needles: A 4.0mm (US #6) circular needle, or the size required to achieve the specified gauge, is needed for this project. The 24-inch circular needle accommodates the increasing stitch count as the shawl expands from top to bottom.

Gauge: 5.5 stitches and 8 rows per inch in stockinette stitch. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the finished dimensions and ensuring the lace patterns display correctly.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to work with lace techniques. The combination of straightforward stockinette and simple lace patterning provides an accessible introduction to lace knitting without overwhelming complexity.