Voltage

Voltage Shawl by Sue Stratford

What is Being Made

The Voltage shawl is a triangular knitted shawl designed by Sue Stratford, finished after blocking to measurements of 170cm by 84cm (67 inches by 33 1/4 inches). This is a versatile accessory piece suitable for intermediate knitters seeking a colorwork project with visual impact.

Craft and Primary Technique

This is a knitting project that employs the Intarsia technique to create color-blocked design elements throughout the shawl. Intarsia knitting allows for distinct areas of solid color to be integrated into the fabric without carrying yarn across the back, making it ideal for creating bold, graphic patterns like those featured in this design.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns Used

The Voltage shawl is primarily constructed using Garter Stitch, which is created by knitting every row. This fundamental stitch creates a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges. The shawl features an applied i-cord that runs around the entire perimeter, providing a finished edge detail. The pattern also includes an i-cord cast off technique for binding off, which creates a neat, decorative finish.

Additional Techniques

• Cast on using the method of your choice
• Increasing and decreasing for shaping the triangular silhouette
• Applied i-cord edging worked around the shawl perimeter
• I-cord cast off for the final bind-off

Materials and Yarn

The Voltage shawl is designed to be knitted with Wriggle 4ply 100% Merino Singles yarn by Skein Queen, which offers 365 meters (399 yards) per 100-gram skein. The pattern calls for three skeins in coordinating colorways: Neon Kiwi (365m/399 yds), Urban Graffiti (182m/199 yds), and Charcoal (130m/142 yds). The 4-ply weight provides a lightweight, drapable fabric ideal for shawl construction.

Needles and Notions

One circular needle in size 4mm (UK 8 / US 6) measuring 80cm (32 inches) in length is required for this project. Additional notions include 2 stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, plus a darning needle for weaving in ends.

Tension and Gauge

The pattern specifies a tension of 20 stitches and 46 rows over 10cm when worked in Garter Stitch, measured after blocking and on the diagonal. Knitters are advised to check their tension before beginning the project and adjust needle size accordingly to ensure the finished shawl achieves the intended dimensions.

Difficulty Level

This project is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle colorwork techniques and shaping methods.