Anticipation

Anticipation Shawl by Siew Clark

What Is Being Made

Anticipation is a top-down, symmetrical crescent shawl designed by Siew Clark. This intermediate-level knitting project creates an elegant shawlette with a curved silhouette. The finished dimensions measure 56 inches across the top edge with a 14-inch depth, making it an ideal accessory for layering or draping. The symmetrical construction means the pattern mirrors itself on both sides of a central stitch marker, creating balanced visual interest throughout the design.

Knitting Techniques Used

Anticipation employs fundamental yet effective knitting techniques to achieve its crescent shape and elegant drape. The shawl is constructed using a top-down approach, beginning with a small cast-on and expanding outward through strategic increases. The design utilizes paired decreases and yarn overs positioned on both sides of a central marker to create the symmetrical silhouette. This combination of shaping techniques allows knitters to customize the final size by working additional repeats of the pattern sequence, making it adaptable to personal preferences without requiring gauge adjustments.

Stitches Used

The pattern incorporates a focused selection of essential knitting stitches:

• Knit (k) – the foundational stitch forming the fabric base
• Purl (p) – used primarily in the even-numbered rows to create textural contrast
• Knit front and back (kfb) – an increase stitch that creates additional stitches from a single stitch
• Yarn over (yo) – creates decorative eyelets and lace elements while increasing stitch count
• Knit 2 together (k2tog) – a right-leaning decrease used on the right side of the symmetrical pattern
• Slip, slip, knit (ssk) – a left-leaning decrease used on the left side to mirror the k2tog decreases
• Bind off (BO) – secures stitches at completion

Materials and Tools

The Anticipation shawl is designed with flexibility in mind regarding yarn choice. The pattern is written using Bernat Baby Coordinates Sweet Stripes in a dk (double knit) weight yarn, requiring approximately 400 yards to complete. However, the designer notes that any yarn and color will work beautifully for this project, allowing knitters to select yarns based on personal preference, stash availability, or desired aesthetic. US 10 (6.0mm) needles are specified for the pattern, though this sizing is based on the original yarn choice. Two stitch markers are required to track the symmetrical increases and decreases throughout the construction. Notably, gauge is not critical for this design, making it an excellent project for knitters who prefer flexibility in their finished dimensions or who wish to experiment with different yarn weights.