Alivia

Alivia Triangular Shawl by Vanessa Smith

What Is Being Made

Alivia is a triangular knitted shawl designed by independent designer Vanessa Smith. This versatile accessory is worked from the bottom point upward to the upper edge, creating a classic triangular silhouette. The shawl features a beautiful lace border that serves as the focal point of the design. Two distinct center stitch options allow crafters to customize the finished piece: a lace center version or a garter stitch center version. The lace center version measures 54 inches (137 cm) wide and 23 inches (58 cm) deep, while the garter stitch center version measures 50 inches (127 cm) wide and 19 inches (48 cm) deep. This design flexibility means the shawl can be styled for both formal and casual occasions depending on which center option is selected.

Techniques and Construction

Alivia employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for intermediate-level crafters. The shawl is constructed using a bottom-up approach, beginning at the point and expanding toward the upper edge. The lace border is a key design element that frames the shawl and requires attention to detail in following lace charting instructions. The two center stitch options—lace and garter stitch—represent different textural approaches to the same basic structure.

Sizing Flexibility: One of the standout features of this pattern is its adaptability. Crafters can easily modify the finished size by repeating the second chart fewer or more times, allowing for customization based on yarn availability or personal preference. This makes it possible to use less or more yarn than the base pattern calls for, or to work the shawl in a different yarn weight while maintaining the design integrity.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch: Used as the base fabric for gauge measurement and construction
• Garter Stitch: One of two center options, creating a textured, reversible fabric
• Lace Stitches: Featured in both the decorative border and the alternative lace center option, requiring chart reading and lace knitting skills

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Alivia requires 380 yards (347 meters) or more of fingering weight yarn, making it an efficient project that doesn't require large yardage quantities. The pattern accommodates various yarn compositions and fiber blends. The pictured magenta shawl with a garter stitch center was knitted using a plied merino fingering weight yarn, while the aqua shawl featuring a lace center was created with a plied silk and merino blend fingering weight yarn. These fiber choices demonstrate that the pattern works beautifully with both pure wool and luxury fiber blends.

Needles: The pattern calls for US 6 (4 mm) circular needles measuring 32 inches (80 cm) in length, or a size appropriate to achieve the desired gauge and fabric characteristics. Circular needles are essential for this construction method.

Gauge Information

The target gauge for Alivia is 22.5 stitches and 33 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch when unblocked. However, the pattern notes that achieving exact gauge is not critical, offering flexibility for crafters who may work at slightly different tensions. This forgiving approach makes the pattern more accessible while still providing a reference point for consistent results.