Curve of Pursuit

Curve of Pursuit Knitted Afghan and Wall-Hanging

What is Being Made

Curve of Pursuit is a knitted afghan or wall-hanging designed by Pat Ashforth and Steve Plummer from Woolly Thoughts. An afghan is a small blanket suitable for warmth or decorative purposes. The design shown on the cover is approximately 125 cm (50 inches) square and can be displayed as either a functional blanket or mounted as a wall art piece. The pattern includes instructions for converting the afghan into a wall-hanging format.

Construction Method

The afghan is worked entirely in one piece using a modular construction technique. Each section is knitted directly onto the previous section, creating a seamless integrated design. Only one yarn is used at a time throughout the project, simplifying color management and yarn handling during the knitting process.

Design and Illusion

The visual design creates an optical illusion of four curves spiraling outward from the center of the piece. However, no actual curves are present in the knitted structure. Instead, the illusion is created through a series of nested squares that are slightly rotated in relation to each other. This mathematical approach to creating curved visual effects demonstrates the intersection of mathematical principles and textile design, reflecting Woolly Thoughts' focus on crafty mathematics.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

Curve of Pursuit is worked entirely in garter stitch, making it an accessible project despite its intermediate difficulty rating. Garter stitch is created by knitting every row, producing a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges. This fundamental stitch choice creates visual texture while the mathematical arrangement of the nested squares generates the design's primary visual interest.

Yarn and Materials

The version shown in the pattern was made using Aran yarn, a medium-weight yarn that creates a substantial, durable fabric suitable for a functional blanket. However, the pattern is adaptable and can be made in multiple yarn weights, including:

• Sport weight
• DK weight
• Worsted weight
• Heavy worsted weight
• 6-ply yarn

The choice of yarn weight will affect the finished size and drape of the completed afghan. Knitting needles appropriate to the selected yarn weight are required to achieve proper gauge and fabric characteristics.

Difficulty Level

This project is rated as intermediate difficulty. While garter stitch itself is a beginner-friendly technique, the modular construction method and the need to work sections sequentially requires intermediate-level knitting skills and pattern-reading ability.

Format

Curve of Pursuit is available as a downloadable PDF pattern, allowing immediate access to complete instructions for both the afghan and wall-hanging versions of this mathematical textile design.