Shawls in Stylecraft Special XL & Special XL Tweed - 9887 - Downloadable PDF

Shawls in Stylecraft Special XL & Special XL Tweed - Pattern 9887

Project Overview

This downloadable knitting pattern features two distinct shawl designs crafted from Stylecraft Special XL and Special XL Tweed yarns. Both shawls are designed as intermediate-level projects suitable for knitters with foundational skills. The patterns offer three size options ranging from 81-91cm to 112-122cm bust measurements, with corresponding full lengths between approximately 178.5cm and 193cm.

Striped Shawl with Pockets

Construction and Design: The Striped Shawl with Pockets combines functional pocket elements with a striped colorway pattern. This design creates a practical garment that extends beyond traditional shawl styling by incorporating integrated pockets for added utility.

Sizing Information: Available in three sizes with bust measurements of 81-91cm (32-36 inches), 97-107cm (38-42 inches), and 112-122cm (44-48 inches). The shawl width measures 54cm, 58cm, or 62cm (21¼, 22¾, or 24½ inches) depending on size selected, with approximate full lengths of 178.5cm, 184cm, or 191cm (70¼, 72½, or 75 inches).

Techniques Used: The pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques including stocking stitch (stockinette stitch), which creates a smooth, classic fabric texture. Pocket construction involves casting on stitches separately and transferring them to stitch holders, a standard method for creating functional pocket openings within knitted garments.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns: The primary stitch used is stocking stitch, created by alternating knit rows on the right side with purl rows on the wrong side. The pattern also incorporates a rib stitch variation (k1, p1 repetition) for textural interest and structure within the design.

Materials and Tools: This design requires 12mm knitting needles for the pocket sections and 10mm needles for the main shawl body. The pattern is worked in Stylecraft Special XL yarn, a super chunky weight yarn that creates quick, satisfying results. Yarn color A is specified as the primary yarn throughout the construction.

Tension Requirements: The pattern specifies a tension of 8 stitches and 11 rows to 10cm (4 inches) measured over stocking stitch using 12mm needles, or the needle size required to achieve correct tension. Achieving proper tension is essential for accurate sizing and garment fit.

Leaf Shawl with Pockets

Design Characteristics: The Leaf Shawl with Pockets represents the second design option within this pattern collection. Like its companion design, this shawl incorporates pocket functionality while featuring a leaf motif or leaf-inspired stitch pattern.

Sizing Specifications: This shawl is offered in the same three size range as the Striped version. Width measurements are 54cm, 59cm, or 61cm (21¼, 23¼, or 24 inches), with approximate full lengths of 182cm, 187cm, or 193cm (71½, 73½, or 76 inches).

Construction Methods: The Leaf Shawl similarly utilizes pocket construction techniques and intermediate-level knitting methods suitable for knitters progressing beyond basic skills.

General Pattern Information

Yarn Weight and Fiber: Both designs are created using Stylecraft Special XL, a super chunky weight yarn that works quickly on larger needles. The inclusion of Special XL Tweed variant offers texture options for knitters preferring a tweeded or flecked yarn appearance.

Skill Level: Classified as intermediate difficulty, these patterns assume familiarity with basic casting on, knit and purl stitches, stitch holders, and garment assembly. The super chunky yarn weight and larger needle sizes make these projects accessible while the pocket construction and sizing options provide appropriate challenge for intermediate knitters.

Pattern Format: This pattern is provided as a downloadable PDF document, allowing immediate access to complete instructions, schematic diagrams, and sizing charts for both shawl designs.