Brenda 7027

Brenda 7027 Knitted Shawl by Sue Whiting Designs

Project Overview

Brenda is an intermediate-level knitted shawl design by Sue Whiting Designs. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a generous triangular shawl measuring approximately 150 cm (59 inches) wide and 75 cm (29½ inches) deep, making it a versatile accessory suitable for layering or draping.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a classic triangular shawl constructed from a single cast-on stitch that expands outward through strategic increases. The shawl features a center stitch marker that serves as a focal point for the symmetrical increases, creating a balanced, geometric silhouette ideal for displaying yarn characteristics and stitch definition.

Yarn and Materials

The Brenda shawl is designed to work with worsted weight yarn. The pattern calls for 2 x 100g balls of Red Heart Unforgettable, photographed in the colorway Petunia 3950. Knitters will need 5 mm (US 8) needles in both straight and circular formats to accommodate the expanding stitch count as the shawl grows.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate pattern employs several fundamental knitting techniques that build shaping and visual interest:

• Yarn forward (yfwd) – Used extensively throughout to create lace-like increases that add both width and decorative eyelet details
• Yarn round needle (yrn) – Creates additional stitch increases while forming purl-based texture variations
• Stockinette stitch (st st) – The primary fabric base, providing a smooth, classic canvas for the shawl
• Garter stitch edges – Knit stitches worked at the beginning and end of rows (K2 at each edge) create a defined, non-curling border
• Reverse stockinette sections – Purl rows worked between knit edges add subtle textural contrast
• Increases worked knitwise – Used at specific points to expand the shawl while maintaining stitch integrity
• Double yarn wraps – Row 17 incorporates winding yarn twice around the needle for each knit stitch, creating elongated stitches that add drape and visual texture

Pattern Structure

The shawl begins with a single cast-on stitch and progresses through a series of increase rows. The pattern establishes a rhythm of paired increase rows (rows 4 and 5) that repeat five times, building from 11 stitches to 35 stitches before the center marker is placed. Subsequent rows continue the expansion pattern, reaching 39 stitches and beyond. This methodical increase sequence ensures even, balanced growth across the entire triangular shape.

Tension and Fit

Achieving the correct tension is essential for this pattern. The design is worked at 19 stitches and 24 rows to 10 cm using 5 mm (US 8) needles over stockinette stitch. Knitters are advised to check tension before beginning, as variations will directly affect the finished dimensions of the completed shawl.

Skill Level

Rated as intermediate difficulty, this pattern assumes familiarity with basic knitting techniques including casting on, knit and purl stitches, yarn overs, and reading pattern abbreviations. The repetitive nature of the increase sequences makes it accessible to knitters developing their skills, while the shawl's elegant construction and finished size offer a rewarding project outcome.