Triffid

Triffid Shawl by Meghan Jackson

What Is Being Made

Triffid is a literature-inspired lace shawl designed by Meghan Jackson for Zen Butterfly Knits. This all-over lace shawl features a distinctive floral edged design, drawing creative inspiration from John Wyndham's classic science fiction novel The Day of the Triffids. The shawl transforms the dark themes of the novel into a beautiful, wearable lace garment perfect for any occasion, whether tiptoeing through a garden or everyday wear.

Construction and Shaping Techniques

The Triffid shawl is constructed from the bottom up, utilizing short rows to shape the piece as it grows. This construction method allows for controlled shaping and creates the elegant drape characteristic of bottom-up shawl designs. The short-row technique adds dimension and helps achieve the shawl's flattering silhouette while maintaining the integrity of the lace pattern throughout.

Stitches and Lace Pattern

This project features an all-over lace design with a floral-edged motif. The lace pattern is worked throughout the entire shawl, creating an intricate, delicate fabric. The floral edging adds visual interest and botanical charm to the finished piece, making it a true statement accessory for lace enthusiasts.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Triffid shawl is designed to be knitted with Zen Yarn Garden Serenity 20, a premium yarn blend containing 70% Merino, 20% Cashmere, and 10% Nylon. Each skein provides 400 yards (366 meters) and weighs 3.5 ounces (100 grams).

Two options are available:

• Two Colour Version: Knitters can choose a two-colour design using Apricot for the main colour and edging, paired with Frosted Teal as the contrast colour. Yardage requirements are 1 skein of Apricot (all sizes) and 1 skein of Frosted Teal for Small and Medium sizes, or 2 skeins of Frosted Teal for the Large size.
• One Colour Version: A monochromatic option in Mossy Oak requires 1 skein for Small, 2 skeins for Medium, and 3 skeins for Large.

Needles and Tools

This project requires two sets of 32-inch circular needles. Use US 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles for cast-on and bind-off, and US 4 (3.5 mm) circular needles for the main knitting. The use of two needle sizes helps create proper tension and fabric characteristics appropriate for the delicate lace pattern.

Yarn Weight and Difficulty Level

The Triffid shawl is worked in 4-ply yarn weight, which creates a lightweight, drapey fabric ideal for lace work. This project is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle lace patterns and short-row shaping techniques. The combination of all-over lace and short-row construction requires attention to detail and familiarity with reading lace charts.

Size Options

The pattern is available in three sizes: Small, Medium, and Large, allowing knitters to customize the finished dimensions to their preferences.