Product Description
Inspired by the structure and vaulted arches of The Colosseum in Rome, this is the knitted version of ‘Doppio Colosseum’ (a crocheted version is also available).
The pattern structure is simple but effective and easy to memorise. It is top-down, so your rows get shorter and shorter as you work through the pattern.
The shawl is based on five blocks of linen stitch and four open rows to represent the vaulted arches of the Colosseum.
Yarn: This pattern works well with most yarns. The yarn used within the pattern is John Arbon Textiles Devonia 4ply (50% Exmoor Blueface, 30% Bluefaced Leicester, 20% Wensleydale) in shade Bleeding Heart. This is a beautiful blend of wools all grown and spun in Devon, England. It comes in at 388m/ 100g and to complete the full pattern I used 135g/ 524m in total.
Doppio Colosseum Knitted Shawl by Fay Dashper-Hughes
What Is Being Made
The Doppio Colosseum is a top-down knitted shawl inspired by the architectural structure of the Colosseum in Rome. This asymmetric triangular shawl is constructed from two skeins of yarn and takes approximately 38 hours to complete. The finished shawl measures 60cm or larger when blocked, making it a substantial accessory piece suitable for layering or draping.
Design and Construction Method
This intermediate-level knitting project uses a top-down construction method, beginning at the neck and expanding outward. The shawl features an asymmetric shape created through strategic decreasing: one side decreases by 12 stitches while the other decreases by 6 stitches, resulting in an obtuse triangle rather than a symmetrical design. This architectural approach mirrors the varied levels and proportions found in the historic Colosseum.
Stitches and Techniques Used
The Doppio Colosseum employs two primary stitch techniques to create visual and textural interest:
- Linen stitch forms the foundation of the design, creating flat, solid sections with a dense, draping fabric that provides structure and weight to the shawl
- Open lace rows are interspersed throughout to reflect the vaulted arches characteristic of the Colosseum's architecture and add openwork interest to the piece
The pattern requires the use of 11 place markers and 1 removable stitch marker to track the various sections and shaping throughout the construction process.
Materials and Specifications
Yarn: The pattern calls for 2 skeins of Devonia 4ply yarn by John Arbon Textiles, each weighing 100g with 388 meters of yardage, totaling 135g and 524 meters. This yarn is composed of 50% Exmoor Blueface wool, 30% Bluefaced Leicester wool, and 20% Wensleydale wool, all grown and spun in Devon. The shade used in the sample is Bleeding Heart.
Needles and Tools: Construction requires 5mm circular needles with a 60cm cable (minimum length). Additional tools include a tapestry needle for finishing.
Gauge and Finished Dimensions
Achieving proper gauge is important for this project. Unblocked linen stitch measures 13.5 stitches and 23 rows over 5cm, while blocked linen stitch measures 13 stitches and 25 rows over 5cm. The finished blocked shawl dimensions begin at 28cm and extend to 60cm or larger, depending on blocking preferences.
Skill Level
This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic stitches and are comfortable working with lace techniques and multiple stitch patterns within a single project.
```Specifications
| Brand: | Independent Designer |
| Yarn Weight: | Fingering |
| Pages: | 4 |
| Designer: | Fay Dashper-Hughes |
| Craft: | Knitting |
| Format: | Downloadable PDF |
| Languages: | English |
| Number of Patterns: | 1 |
| Skill Level: | Intermediate |
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