Warm Newberry Pocket Shawl

Warm Newberry Pocket Shawl by Linda Lehman

Project Overview

The Warm Newberry Pocket Shawl is an intermediate-level knitted wrap designed by Linda Lehman that combines functionality with decorative appeal. This wearable piece features a distinctive construction method where pockets are added after the main body is complete, allowing the knitter to customize pocket placement for optimal comfort and fit.

What Is Being Made

This project creates a warm, wearable pocket shawl—a hybrid garment that functions as both a decorative wrap and a practical accessory with integrated pockets. The shawl is designed to provide warmth while offering the practical benefit of functional pockets for storing small items.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Warm Newberry Pocket Shawl incorporates two separate stitches throughout its construction, creating visual interest and varied texture. The primary focal stitch is an ornate cable stitch, which serves as the decorative centerpiece of the design. Cable knitting is a foundational technique that involves crossing groups of stitches over one another using a cable needle to create raised, twisted patterns that add depth and dimension to the fabric.

The cable stitch work is essential to both the aesthetic appeal and the warmth of the finished shawl. Working with cables requires intermediate knitting proficiency and a solid understanding of cable techniques, including proper cable needle management and stitch manipulation. The second stitch used in the design provides complementary texture and structure to the overall piece.

The edging is created using crochet techniques rather than knitting, adding a different textural element to the finished edges of the shawl.

Materials and Tools Required

For the Main Shawl Body

• Yarn: 1450 to 1675 yards of worsted weight yarn (aran weight)
• Knitting Needles: U.S. size #7 (4.5mm) needles for the main fabric
• Knitting Needles: U.S. size #6 (4.0mm) needles for additional shaping or ribbing
• Cable Needle: One cable needle for executing cable stitches

For the Edging and Pockets

• Yarn: Approximately 100 yards of the same or matching yarn for the crocheted edging
• Crochet Hooks: Size H and Size I crochet hooks for finishing the edges
• Hook Size Adjustment: Knitters with particularly tight or loose crochet tension should adjust hook sizes accordingly to achieve proper drape and appearance

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of approximately 5 stitches to the inch when working the focal cable stitch in moderately blocked fabric. The designer notes that while gauge is not critically important for this design, variations in personal gauge will affect the finished dimensions and total yardage requirements of the completed shawl.

Skill Level and Prerequisites

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty and assumes the knitter has a solid working knowledge of cable knitting techniques. Successful completion requires comfort with cable needle manipulation, understanding how to cross stitches properly, and the ability to read and follow cable charts or written cable instructions. Basic crochet skills are also necessary for completing the edging.