Erika Shawl

Erika Shawl by Anja Heumann

What Is Being Made

The Erika Shawl is an asymmetrical triangular knitted shawl designed by Anja Heumann. This intermediate-level knitting project features a delicate lace pattern that creates decorative leaf motifs throughout the design. The shawl is inspired by autumn, with the lace pattern forming little leaves reminiscent of falling leaves in golden yellows and browns. The finished shawl measures 48.8 inches (122 cm) in length, 34 inches (85 cm) in width, and 58 inches (145 cm) diagonally, making it a substantial accessory suitable for layering or draping.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Erika Shawl is constructed using a lace knitting technique that forms the signature leaf pattern throughout the design. The pattern involves working increases to expand the shawl from a starting point to the finished dimensions. Knitters work the lace pattern in repeats until 180 stitches are on the needles, ending with a right-side row. The completed shawl features nine leaves across both the length and width, creating a balanced, visually appealing design. A shawl edging is incorporated to finish the piece professionally. The lace pattern requires attention to detail and familiarity with yarn-over and decrease techniques typical of intermediate lace knitting projects.

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The Erika Shawl uses BFL/Masham DK weight yarn by woollentwine fibrestudio. This yarn blend consists of 75% Blue-Faced Leicester (BFL) and 25% Masham, with each 100-gram skein providing 260 yards (240 meters). The pattern calls for 300 grams of yarn in the Leaves colorway. Designers note that depending on individual gauge and knitting tension, an additional skein may be necessary.

Needles and Notions: The pattern requires US 6 (4.0 mm) circular needles. Additional supplies include 3 removable stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and scissors.

Gauge: The pattern specifies a gauge of 24 stitches and 34 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when worked in the lace pattern on US 6 (4.0 mm) needles, measured after blocking. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements.