Settler Shawl

Settler Shawl by Truly Myrtle

What is Being Made

The Settler Shawl is a modern crescent-shaped shawl designed by Truly Myrtle that combines contemporary styling with traditional lace knitting techniques. This versatile accessory can be worn in multiple ways: wrapped snugly around the neck as a scarf or gracefully draped across the shoulders for an elegant look. The shawl is worked from a single skein of fingering-weight yarn, making it an efficient and accessible project for knitters seeking to create a sophisticated accessory without requiring large quantities of yarn.

Finished Measurements and Dimensions

When blocked, the Settler Shawl measures approximately 72 inches (183 centimeters) across the wingspan and approximately 13 inches (33 centimeters) in depth, creating a generous crescent shape suitable for layering over various garments and necklines.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Settler Shawl employs a combination of traditional and modern knitting techniques to create visual interest and textural variety. The main body of the shawl is worked in garter stitch, which creates a relaxing, meditative knitting experience ideal for portable projects and social knitting occasions. This straightforward stitch pattern makes the project particularly suitable for handbag knitting and knitting while chatting with friends. The distinctive design feature is the funky criss-crossed border, which adds visual complexity and interest to the finished piece. Despite its decorative appearance, this border is described as fun to knit and simple to master, making it accessible to adventurous beginner-level knitters. The combination of simple garter stitch with the more intricate border creates a modern twist on traditional lace knitting aesthetics.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

• Garter stitch – forms the primary body of the shawl, created by knitting every row
• Criss-crossed border – a decorative edge treatment that adds visual interest while remaining beginner-friendly

Yarn and Materials

The Settler Shawl requires 1 skein of fingering-weight yarn totaling approximately 420 yards (384 meters). The original design calls for Madelinetosh Tosh Merino Light, which is composed of 100% superwash merino wool in the colorway "Well Water." For knitters substituting yarn, any fingering-weight yarn with yardage of approximately 420 yards (384 meters) will work for this project. Merino wool provides excellent drape, elasticity, and softness, making it ideal for shawl knitting.

Needles and Notions

• Circular needles – US Size 6 (4mm), measuring at least 24 inches (60 centimeters) in length
• Stitch marker – 1 marker for tracking pattern repeats and construction points

Gauge

The Settler Shawl is worked to a gauge of 16 stitches and 38 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in garter stitch after blocking. Knitters should adjust needle size as necessary to obtain this gauge, as proper gauge ensures the finished shawl reaches the intended wingspan and depth measurements. Blocking is essential for achieving accurate finished dimensions and allowing the yarn to relax into its final shape.

Skill Level

The Settler Shawl is rated as a beginner-level project, making it ideal for knitters new to shawl construction or those seeking to expand their skills with a manageable, rewarding pattern. The straightforward garter stitch body combined with a simple-to-master criss-crossed border creates an accessible introduction to lace-inspired shawl knitting without overwhelming complexity.