Dimetrodon

Dimetrodon Knitted Shawl by Carissa Browning

Project Overview

Dimetrodon is a beginner-friendly knitted shawl designed by Carissa Browning, inspired by the prehistoric creature's distinctive sail-like spine. This downloadable PDF pattern transforms the iconic dorsal feature into a wearable accessory through creative stitch work and shaping. The shawl combines structural ribbed elements with delicate lace sections to create visual interest and texture that mimics the natural form of its namesake.

What Is Being Made

A triangular bell-shaped shawl with a span of 56 inches and a center height of 17 inches. The design features vertical ribbed sections that resemble the skeletal "bones" of the Dimetrodon's sail, with lacy "skin" filling the spaces between these ribs. One of the shawl's most distinctive qualities is that it is completely reversible, allowing the wearer to display either side as the finished face.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Stepped decreases — Create the bell-shaped silhouette that gives the shawl its distinctive form
• Lace construction — Open stitch patterns form the delicate "skin" sections between ribbed elements
• Ribbed stitch work — Vertical ribbed "bones" extend from the cast-on edge and provide structural definition
• Double yarn overs — Create openwork and contribute to the lacy aesthetic
• Reversible design — The pattern is engineered so both sides present as finished fabric

Stitches and Abbreviations

The pattern uses a specialty stitch called Rib & Lace Stitch, which combines ribbed and openwork sections. Key stitches and abbreviations include:

• DL (drop second loop) — Drop the second loop of a double yarn over from the previous row
• PO (pass over) — Pass the first stitch on the right-hand needle over the second stitch and off the needle
• Wyib (with yarn in back) — Position yarn behind the needle while working stitches
• YO twice (yarn over twice) — Wrap yarn around the right-hand needle twice to create double yarn overs for lace openings
• K2tog (knit two together) — A right-leaning decrease that helps shape the shawl
• Sl1 (slip one) — Slip one stitch from left needle to right needle without working it

Materials and Tools

This beginner project requires minimal materials. The pattern calls for Cascade Heritage Silk yarn in color #5658, a 4-ply weight yarn with a blend of 85% merino and 15% silk. One 100-gram skein, which provides 400 meters or 437 yards, is sufficient to complete the shawl. Knitters will also need a US #6/4mm circular needle for working the project and a tapestry needle for finishing.

Gauge and Construction

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 17 stitches and 26 rows over 4 inches when measured in the Rib & Lace Stitch. The shawl begins with a long cast-on edge and is constructed by working upward with increases and strategic decreases to achieve the bell shape. The cast-on uses a multiple of 10 plus 6 stitches, with a set-up row that establishes the alternating rib and lace pattern structure.

Skill Level

Rated as a beginner project, Dimetrodon is accessible to knitters new to shawl construction. While the pattern incorporates lace work and double yarn overs, the straightforward stitch repeats and clear abbreviations make it manageable for those with foundational knitting skills. The use of a circular needle and the reversible nature of the finished piece add to its appeal as an introductory shawl pattern.