Glitchy

Glitchy Shawl by Kelly Spenhoff

What is Being Made

Glitchy is a downloadable knitting pattern for a triangular shawl designed by Kelly Spenhoff. This one-size shawl measures 42 inches (106.5 cm) wide and 15.5 inches (39.5 cm) deep, making it a versatile accessory suitable for various wearing styles and occasions.

Techniques Used

This beginner-level shawl pattern incorporates fundamental knitting techniques that build essential skills. The pattern employs the garter tab cast-on method, which creates a neat, finished edge at the beginning of the shawl. Shawl construction relies on strategic increases worked throughout the piece to create the triangular shape characteristic of this garment style.

The pattern utilizes both right-leaning and left-leaning make one increases (m1R and m1L), which are directional increase techniques that help shape the shawl while maintaining visual balance. The knit two together through the back loops (k2togtbl) decrease technique is also employed, allowing for controlled shaping and stitch management as the shawl expands.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (k): The fundamental stitch that forms the base structure of the shawl
• Purl stitch (p): Used in combination with knit stitches to create texture and pattern definition
• Garter stitch: Created by knitting every row, providing a textured, reversible fabric
• Stockinette elements: Alternating knit and purl rows create subtle visual interest within the pattern repeat
• Make one knitwise and purlwise (m1, m1Rp, m1Lp): Directional increase stitches that add stitches without creating visible holes
• Knit two together through back loops (k2togtbl): A left-leaning decrease that pairs with the directional increases

The pattern stitch repeat follows a four-row sequence: Row 1 alternates knit and purl stitches (k1, p1); Row 2 is purled; Row 3 is knitted; and Row 4 is purled. This creates a balanced, textured fabric with visual dimension.

Materials and Gauge

The Glitchy shawl is designed for fingering weight yarn (4-ply), requiring approximately 400 yards for completion. The sample was knit using Glitchin' Sheep by Lazer Sheep Yarns, showcasing how this pattern works with quality artisan yarn sources.

Construction requires US 6 circular needles measuring at least 36 inches in length. Circular needles accommodate the increasing stitch count as the triangular shawl expands, and the 36-inch minimum length ensures adequate needle capacity throughout the project. A yarn needle for weaving in ends completes the notions required.

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 23 stitches and 35 rows per 4-inch (10 cm) square in the pattern stitch, making this an accessible project for knitters developing their skills with beginner-appropriate techniques and straightforward construction methods.