Alexa in Berroco Cambria - Downloadable PDF

Alexa Shawl in Berroco Cambria — Knitting Pattern by Amy Christoffers

About This Pattern

Alexa is an elegant, generously sized rectangular shawl designed by Amy Christoffers and published by Berroco. Available as a downloadable PDF, this intermediate-level knitting pattern produces a sophisticated wrap that showcases a beautiful four-color palette. At approximately 23" wide by 76" long (58 cm × 192 cm), the finished piece is long enough to drape luxuriously around the shoulders, wear as a scarf, or wrap elegantly as a shawl.

Design Overview

The Alexa shawl is a rectangular wrap worked in a charted colorwork pattern using four coordinating shades of Berroco Cambria yarn. The design is rated intermediate in difficulty, making it an excellent project for knitters who are comfortable with basic techniques and ready to explore multi-color knitting in a structured, chart-guided format. The long, flowing dimensions of the finished shawl make it a versatile wardrobe accessory suitable for year-round wear.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for Berroco Cambria, a DK weight yarn sold in 50-gram hanks. Four colors are used, with 3 hanks of each colorway required:

• #7902 Snowdrop (C1) — a crisp, clean white tone
• #7904 Ash (C2) — a soft, cool grey
• #7942 Oak (C3) — a warm, earthy neutral
• #7960 Sycamore (C4) — a deeper, rich natural tone

This palette of nature-inspired neutrals creates a harmonious, timeless colorwork effect that complements a wide range of personal styles. Using the recommended Berroco Cambria yarn is advised to ensure accurate gauge and the best finished result.

Needles and Notions

The shawl is knitted on a 32" / 80 cm circular needle, size 6 / 4 mm, or the size needed to obtain the correct gauge. The long circular needle accommodates the full width of this generously sized wrap. In addition to needles, the pattern requires 4 stitch markers to assist with tracking pattern repeats and shaping sections throughout the work.

Gauge

Achieving accurate gauge is essential for this project. The specified gauge is 21 stitches and 26 rows over 4" / 10 cm in the charted pattern. Knitters are strongly encouraged to swatch and check gauge carefully before casting on, as individual tension can vary significantly and will directly affect the finished dimensions of the shawl.

Techniques and Stitches

Alexa is worked using a charted colorwork pattern, which means knitters follow a visual grid to place colors row by row. This technique is common in stranded or intarsia-style knitting and requires the ability to read and follow a knitting chart. Key techniques and skills involved in this pattern include:

• Chart reading — following a visual stitch-by-stitch color map across multiple rows
• Multi-color knitting — managing four separate yarn colors (C1, C2, C3, C4) throughout the project
• Stitch marker placement — using markers to delineate pattern sections and maintain accuracy
• Gauge swatching — essential for achieving the correct finished measurements
• Circular needle technique — working flat or in the round on a long circular needle to manage the stitch count comfortably

The use of four colors in a structured charted layout gives the Alexa shawl its distinctive visual texture and depth, while the DK weight yarn ensures the finished fabric has a pleasing drape without being overly heavy.

Who Is This Pattern For?

This pattern is best suited to intermediate knitters who are familiar with reading charts and comfortable managing multiple yarn colors. It is a rewarding project for those looking