Draupner Shawl

Draupner Shawl by Laura Chau

What is Being Made

The Draupner Shawl is a triangular knitted shawl designed to wrap comfortably around the shoulders or neck. This one-size pattern produces a finished shawl measuring 52 inches (132 centimeters) across the top edge with a center depth of 13 inches (33 centimeters) including the decorative scalloped edging. Each individual scallop measures approximately 6 inches (15 centimeters) across and 3 inches (8 centimeters) deep at the center, creating a distinctive textured border.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Draupner Shawl employs several intermediate-level knitting techniques to create visual interest and structure. Short rows are used to construct the scalloped edging, a technique that involves turning the work before completing a full row to create shaped sections. This method allows the knitter to form the curved, undulating edge that characterizes the shawl's border. The body of the shawl features lacy columns that provide an open, delicate appearance while maintaining structural integrity. A gentle curve is incorporated into the body design, ensuring the finished shawl drapes naturally and comfortably when worn.

Stitches Used

• Garter Stitch – Used for both the scalloped edging and elongated pattern sections throughout the shawl. This fundamental knit stitch creates a textured, reversible fabric that showcases hand-dyed yarn beautifully.
• Lacy stitches – Incorporated in vertical columns throughout the body of the shawl to create an open, decorative effect that contrasts with the solid Garter Stitch sections.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Draupner Shawl is designed for fingering weight yarn, requiring approximately 700 yards (640 meters) of yarn total. The pattern is shown knitted in Viola Merino Fingering, a 100% superwash merino yarn that provides approximately 400 yards (365 meters) per 3.5 ounce (100 gram) skein. The sample shawl shown uses 2 skeins in the colorway Sea Storm. Fingering weight yarn is a fine, delicate yarn weight ideal for creating intricate stitch patterns and producing garments with excellent drape and definition.

Craft and Designer Information

The Draupner Shawl is a knitting pattern designed by Laura Chau and features technical editing by Alexandra Virgiel. This intermediate-level knitting project is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to explore shaping techniques and lace work. The pattern demonstrates how hand-dyed yarns can be showcased effectively through strategic stitch choices, particularly the elongated Garter Stitch sections that allow color variation to become a design feature rather than a background element.