Vantage

Vantage Shawl by Elizabeth Elliott

What is Being Made

Vantage is an advanced-level triangular knit shawl designed by Elizabeth Elliott. The finished shawl measures 72 inches (183 cm) long, with a depth of 19.75 inches (50 cm) from the top point and 26 inches (66 cm along the wide end. The length is adjustable, allowing knitters to customize the final dimensions to their preference. The shawl features an elegant combination of stitch patterns that create visual interest while maintaining an understated aesthetic.

Design Inspiration and Aesthetic

Vantage draws inspiration from coastal views overlooking the Gulf Islands, balancing decorative elements with refined simplicity. The design philosophy emphasizes how carefully selected stitch patterns can showcase the inherent qualities of premium yarn, particularly the subtle color variations present in hand-dyed fibers.

Stitch Techniques and Construction

This shawl employs several key knitting techniques that define its advanced difficulty level:

• Twisted stitch top border: The upper edge features a twisted stitch pattern that creates visual definition and a decorative frame for the shawl
• Purl ridge body: The main body of the shawl incorporates purl ridges, which create textural contrast and contribute to the shawl's dimensional appearance
• Two-stitch cables: The pattern includes cable work, with specialized instructions provided for executing 2-stitch cables without requiring a cable needle, making this advanced technique more accessible
• Increases: Strategic increases throughout the pattern shape the triangular silhouette
• Slip stitches: Slip stitches are incorporated into the stitch pattern work

Knitting Fundamentals Required

To successfully complete Vantage, knitters should be proficient in basic knitting techniques including knit stitches, purl stitches, and slip stitches. While the pattern is classified as advanced, it is designed to accommodate knitters who may be new to cable work or increasing techniques, as detailed guidance is provided throughout the instructions.

Pattern Format and Instructions

Vantage is provided in downloadable PDF format and includes both charted and written instructions, allowing knitters to choose their preferred method of following the pattern. The dual-format approach accommodates different learning styles and provides flexibility during the knitting process.

Yarn Specifications

The shawl is designed to be worked in Jill Draper Makes Stuff Mohonk Light, a 100% lamb's wool yarn that provides the soft, springy characteristics essential to the shawl's drape and stitch definition. The yardage requirement is approximately 1,100 yards (1,006 meters total), requiring 2 skeins of the yarn at approximately 550 yards (503 meters) per 4-ounce (113-gram) skein. The pattern sample was worked in the colorway Brickyard, which showcases the yarn's subtle color variations through the purl ridge and twisted stitch patterns.

Needles and Tools

Vantage is worked on US 4 (3.5 mm) needles. The pattern includes instructions for working 2-stitch cables without a cable needle, eliminating the need for an additional tool while still achieving the desired cable effect.