Zida

Zida Knit Shawl by Truly Myrtle

What Is Being Made

Zida is a dramatic asymmetric triangle shawl designed by Truly Myrtle. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a statement piece with a finished wingspan of approximately 97 inches (246.5 cm) when blocked and a depth of approximately 21 inches (53.5 cm). The shawl is designed to be worn draped around the neck, offering both visual impact and practical warmth through its generous dimensions and textured construction.

Knitting Techniques

Zida employs several engaging knitting techniques that make it suitable for intermediate knitters and confident beginners. The pattern features slipped stitches as a primary design element, used to create beautiful columns of colour throughout the shawl. The design incorporates a lace pattern that is rhythmic and easy to memorise, allowing knitters to work without constant pattern reference once the repeat is established. The shawl also includes undulating welts created through simple stitch manipulations that produce deep textural interest. These techniques work together to create strong visual lines and dynamic colour play that develops as you progress through the knitting.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes straightforward stitches combined in clever ways to achieve complex visual effects. Slipped stitches form the foundation of the colour work, creating the distinctive columns without the complexity of stranded knitting. The lace pattern uses basic decreases and yarn overs to form an open, rhythmic design that is memorable and meditative to knit. The welts that create the undulating texture are constructed from simple stitch techniques that remain engaging throughout the project without requiring advanced skills.

Materials

Zida requires approximately 874 yards (800 metres) of 4-ply yarn. The sample was knitted using Sikkim Hand-dyed 4-ply by Happy Go Knitty, a fingering-weight yarn composed of 65% superwash Merino, 20% silk, and 15% yak. This fibre blend provides both durability and luxury, with the silk and yak adding sheen and softness while the superwash Merino ensures easy care. The yarn is worked on US6 (4mm) circular needles at least 24 inches in length. The sample required 2 skeins of yarn to complete.

Pattern Characteristics

The pattern description emphasizes that Zida is an entertaining and engaging knit that will keep you reaching for it during spare moments. The combination of textured stitches and hand-dyed yarn creates dynamic visual interest as colours dance throughout the fabric. The asymmetric triangle shape with strong lines creates a modern, dramatic silhouette that works as both a functional accessory and a wearable art piece. The pattern is designed to be accessible to experienced knitters seeking an engaging project and confident beginners ready to expand their skills into shawl construction.