Sea Views Triangular Shawl

Sea Views Triangular Shawl by Michael Harrigan

What Is Being Made

The Sea Views Triangular Shawl is an intermediate-level knitted shawlette designed to capture the natural beauty of coastal landscapes. This triangular shawl measures 52 inches in width and 24 inches in height, making it a versatile accessory suitable for layering or wearing as a wrap. The design draws inspiration from the designer's seaside home, incorporating visual elements that evoke rainy skies, bamboo groves, seaweed-strewn shores, and sunny day waves through its stitch patterns and color work.

Techniques Used

This shawl employs several key knitting techniques to achieve its distinctive aesthetic. The construction utilizes eyelet stitch patterns to create openwork details that contribute to the airy, flowing nature of the finished piece. Smocking techniques are incorporated into the stitch patterns, adding texture and visual interest that mimics the movement of water and natural elements. Yarn overs are used throughout to create the characteristic lacy qualities of the design. The shawl is worked on a circular needle, allowing for the triangular shape to develop through strategic increases and stitch pattern placement.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern featured in this design is the Bamboo stitch, which serves as a foundational element throughout the shawl. The Smocking Eyelet Stitch Pattern is worked over a multiple of 3 stitches and combines knit and purl rows with yarn overs to create the openwork sections. The pattern incorporates basic knitting fundamentals including knit stitches, purl stitches, and yarn overs, which are combined in specific sequences to build the textured and lacy elements characteristic of the finished shawl.

Materials and Specifications

• Yarn: Wollelfe MERINO-TWIN 4-Ply Fingering Weight in Gunmetal Grey (Color A) – 1 skein of 100g containing 400 meters or 437 yards, composed of 80% Extrafine Merino and 20% Polyamide
• Yarn: Wollelfe MERINO-TWIN MINIS 4-Ply Fingering Weight in Frozen Gradient (Color B) – 1 set of 2x50g skeins containing 400 meters or 437 yards total, composed of 80% Extrafine Merino and 20% Polyamide
• Needles: Size 3 (3.25mm) circular needle measuring 32 inches (80 centimeters), or the size needed to obtain proper gauge
• Additional Supplies: Stitch marker and tapestry needle for finishing
• Gauge: In Bamboo stitch, 21 stitches and 36 rows equal 4 inches (10 centimeters). Checking gauge before beginning is essential to ensure the finished shawl meets the specified dimensions

Skill Level and Yarn Weight

This pattern is rated at intermediate skill level, making it suitable for knitters who have progressed beyond basic techniques and are comfortable working with stitch patterns, yarn overs, and shaping. The yarn weight specified is 4-ply fingering weight, also classified as super fine. This lightweight yarn allows for delicate drape and the creation of intricate stitch definition, particularly in the eyelet and smocking patterns that define the shawl's visual character.