Old bones

Old Bones Knitted Shawl by Ashley Knowlton

What Is Being Made

Old Bones is an advanced knitting pattern for a customizable triangular shawl or wrap designed by Ashley Knowlton. The finished measurements span 40 inches (101.5 cm) in wingspan with a depth of 18.5 inches (47 cm), though the total size can be adjusted by working additional repeats of the ribbing chart to suit individual preferences and yarn availability.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern requires 360 yards (330 meters) of aran or worsted weight yarn. The sample shown was knitted in Posh Martha Aran, a premium blend yarn containing 80% merino wool, 10% cashmere, and 10% nylon, with each 100-gram skein yielding 180 yards (165 meters). The color featured in the original design is Infinity. Knitters have the flexibility to substitute any aran or worsted weight yarn of similar yardage and fiber content.

Needles and Notions

Construction requires a US 8 (5mm) circular needle measuring at least 40 inches (100 cm) in length to accommodate the ruffled edging as the shawl expands during knitting. Additional notions include a cable needle for cable stitch work, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, and blocking pins or wires for finishing and shaping the completed shawl.

Gauge and Fit

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 26 rows measuring 4 by 4 inches (10 by 10 centimeters) in the ribbing chart after blocking, with slight stretching. While precise gauge is not critical to the fit of the shawl, significant variations in gauge or needle size will affect the finished dimensions. Knitters should note that the first stitch of every right-side row is slipped purlwise to create a neat selvage edge.

Techniques and Stitches

Old Bones employs advanced knitting techniques suitable for experienced crafters. The pattern features cable work, indicated by the inclusion of a cable needle in the required materials, combined with ribbing patterns that form the structural foundation of the design. The shawl construction utilizes a ribbing chart that can be repeated to expand the overall size, allowing customization based on available yardage and desired finished dimensions. The ruffled edging adds textural interest and visual movement to the completed wrap.

Customization Options

One of the key features of the Old Bones pattern is its flexibility. Knitters can expand the shawl by working additional repeats of the ribbing chart, with yardage requirements adjusted accordingly. This makes the pattern suitable for various yarn quantities and allows crafters to create a piece that matches their specific needs and preferences.