Just Breathe shawl

Just Breathe Shawl by Myla Vayner

Project Overview

The Just Breathe shawl is an advanced-level knitting design created by independent designer Myla Vayner of Myla's Knit Corner. This downloadable PDF pattern offers three size options to suit different needs, from small accessories for babies and toddlers to generous wraps for adults. The shawl features a distinctive pattern stitch that creates beautiful drape and stretch along the longest edge after blocking.

What Is Being Made

This is a triangular or crescent-shaped shawl available in three distinct sizes. The small size measures 26 inches by 17 inches (66 by 43 centimeters) and is ideal for babies, toddlers, or small children. The medium size spans 40 inches by 29 inches (101 by 73 centimeters), offering a versatile wrap for everyday wear. The large size reaches 60 inches by 35 inches (152 by 88 centimeters), providing ample coverage for adults. All measurements are given for post-blocking dimensions, and knitters should expect the shawl to stretch at the longest edge due to the pattern stitch construction.

Yarn and Materials

The Just Breathe shawl is designed for sport weight or DK weight yarn. The sample shown in the pattern was knitted using Yarn Fairy & the Pixies Elf Merino in the Brushed Steel colorway, which is a sport weight yarn composed of 100% super fine merino fiber. Yardage requirements vary by size: the small size requires 288 yards (263 meters), the medium size needs 370 yards (338 meters), and the large size calls for 550 yards (502 meters).

Knitters will need a 32-inch (80-centimeter) circular needle in size 7/US (4.5 millimeters) to accommodate the growing number of stitches as the shawl expands. Additional supplies include scissors, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and stitch markers as needed to track pattern repeats and construction points.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This advanced-level pattern incorporates several specialized knitting techniques that create visual interest and structure. The design uses twisted stitches, created by working stitches through the back loop, which adds texture and definition to the fabric. The abbreviations used throughout the pattern include standard knitting terminology such as knit (k), purl (p), cast on (CO), and bind off (BO).

• Twisted Stitches: The pattern employs k1TBL (knit 1 through back loop) and p1TBL (purl 1 through back loop) techniques to create twisted stitches that enhance the shawl's textural qualities.
• Increases: Left lifted leaning increases (LLI) are used to shape the shawl and create the triangular or crescent silhouette.
• Cable Work: A cable needle (CN) is referenced in the stitch abbreviations, indicating that cable techniques may be incorporated into the pattern stitch.
• Circular Needle Construction: The shawl is worked on circular needles, allowing for the seamless expansion required as the piece grows from the cast-on edge.

Pattern Difficulty and Skill Level

Rated as an advanced knitting project, the Just Breathe shawl is best suited for experienced knitters who are comfortable with pattern reading, stitch manipulation, and shaping techniques. The combination of twisted stitches, increases, and cable work requires strong foundational knitting skills and the ability to maintain tension and consistency throughout the project.