Gnarled Oakwoods

Gnarled Oakwoods Knitted Shawl by Anne Hanson

Project Overview

Gnarled Oakwoods is an intermediate-level knitted shawl stole designed by Anne Hanson. This rectangular wrap features lush, organic motifs inspired by woodland aesthetics, evoking the rich, earthy sensations of a forest floor. The design combines elegant drape with nature-inspired stitch patterns, making it a sophisticated accessory for those with intermediate knitting experience.

Finished Dimensions and Yarn Requirements

The completed stole measures 22 inches wide by 80 inches long when stretched and blocked, providing substantial coverage as a shoulder wrap or shawl. This project requires 1100 yards of yarn, making it an ideal medium-length knitting project.

Yarn Specifications

Gnarled Oakwoods is designed for DK weight yarn with specific characteristics. The pattern calls for fingering weight yarn with a relaxed, drapey hand and approximately 400 yards per 100 grams. Suggested yarn options include:

• Elsebeth Lavold Silky Wool
• Briar Rose Josephine
• Woolen Rabbit Opulence
• Wooly Wonka Fibers Celestial
• Jaeger Alpaca
• Rowan Felted Tweed

The pictured sample is worked in Wooly Wonka Fibers Celestial in the Dryad Moon colorway, showcasing how the organic stitch patterns interact beautifully with solid and variegated colorways.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This shawl employs a two-piece construction method. The stole is worked from hem to center back in two separate pieces, which are then grafted together. This technique allows for symmetrical patterning and careful control of the organic motifs throughout the design. Grafting creates an invisible seam, maintaining the visual flow of the stitch patterns across the center of the finished piece.

Gauge and Needles

The pattern specifies a gauge of 22 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch when measured unblocked. The fabric will be quite relaxed after blocking, contributing to the drapey quality essential to the design. Knitters should use US size 6 (4.0 mm) needles—either straight or circular—or adjust needle size as needed to obtain the correct gauge.

Design Details

The stitch patterns in Gnarled Oakwoods feature organic motifs that evoke natural woodland imagery. These lush, flowing designs work in concert with the yarn's drapey characteristics to create a sophisticated, nature-inspired accessory. The rectangular stole shape and generous length make it versatile for wearing as a shawl, wrap, or decorative stole.

Pattern Information

This design originally appeared in the Fall 2008 issue of Twist Collective and is offered as a downloadable PDF pattern. The intermediate difficulty level makes it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to work with more complex stitch patterns and construction methods.