Cobb

Cobb Shawl by Emily Stamets

Design Inspiration and Concept

Cobb is a triangular knit shawl inspired by Geraldyn Cobb, a record-setting aviator and member of the Mercury 13—a group of women who underwent astronaut training in the United States during the late 1950s. The shawl's design philosophy reflects Cobb's remarkable legacy: contrasting an airy, frenetic lace pattern with graceful swoops to represent "the strong, stable earth meeting the enticing sky."

Construction Method

This single-skein triangular shawl is worked sideways, beginning from the right point and progressing toward the left. The sideways construction allows for a seamless, organic shape and provides flexibility in finished dimensions based on yardage used. The pattern is available in both written and charted formats, professionally tech edited and test knit for accuracy and clarity.

Stitch Patterns and Techniques

Cobb features two parallel stitch patterns that work in conversation with one another throughout the design. The contrast between an intricate, open lace pattern and more solid, flowing sections creates visual interest and demonstrates intermediate-level knitting skills. The interplay of these stitch patterns produces dynamic texture and movement across the finished shawl.

Yarn Requirements and Options

• Single-Color Version: One skein of fingering-weight yarn, 375–500 yards (340–447 meters)
• Two-Color Variation: 258 yards of Color A for the border and 470 yards of Color B for the body, totaling approximately 728 yards

The designer used A Chick That Knitz' Silky Singles for the sample, a 70% merino and 30% silk single-ply yarn that provides drape and sheen. Plied yarns are also suitable for this project, offering alternative texture and durability options.

Yarn Weight and Needle Specifications

Cobb is designed to work with fingering-weight yarn (also classified as 3-ply or 4-ply in some regions and yarn-weight systems). Fingering weight provides the delicate fabric and stitch definition necessary for the lace patterns and graceful swoops that define this design. Appropriate needles should be selected based on the specific yarn and desired gauge.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to work with charted lace patterns and manage multiple stitch patterns simultaneously. The sideways construction and combination of textured and open-work sections provide engaging challenges without requiring advanced techniques.