Evening primrose

Evening Primrose Knitted Scarf and Shawl

What is Being Made

Evening Primrose is a versatile knitted accessory designed by Ashley Knowlton that functions as both a curved scarf and a shoulder shawl. The finished piece measures approximately 56 inches (142 centimeters) around the curve from point to point, with a maximum width of 8 inches (20.5 centimeters) after blocking. The design features a delicate lace pattern enhanced by a silken halo effect created through the yarn composition, making it an elegant accessory suitable for evening wear or special occasions.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to achieve its distinctive shape and texture. Short rows are worked throughout the body of the piece to create floral ruffles and give the scarf its curved, three-dimensional form. The pattern uses a simplified short-row method that requires no wrapping, making the technique more accessible while still producing professional results. The curved construction allows the finished scarf to sit naturally on the shoulders when worn as a shawl, or to drape elegantly when worn as a traditional neck scarf.

Stitches and Pattern Elements

Evening Primrose features a pretty but simple lace pattern that is worked using a chart-based approach. The lace pattern is combined with the short-row shaping technique to create visual interest and dimension. On specific rows (rows 3, 7, 11, 15, and 19) of the body chart, the work is turned at a marked turning line to create the ruffled effect. The use of stitch markers helps track pattern repeats and turning points throughout the construction process.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Evening Primrose is designed to be worked in fingering weight yarn, requiring approximately 350 yards (320 meters) total. The pattern is shown worked in Fyberspates Faery Wings, a luxury yarn blend consisting of 67% silk, 23% kid mohair, and 10% nylon, available in 350-yard (320-meter) skeins weighing 100 grams. The sample shown is worked in the Antique Rose colorway, requiring one skein. The silk and kid mohair blend creates the characteristic silken halo effect that distinguishes this design.

Needles and Notions

• A pair of US 5 (3.75 millimeter) needles for working the fingering weight yarn
• Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and short-row turning points
• A tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends after completion

Gauge and Finishing

Proper gauge is essential for achieving the finished measurements specified in the pattern. The scarf should be blocked after completion to open up the lace pattern and set the final dimensions. Blocking helps even out the stitches and allows the curved shawl shape to fully develop.