Leonarda Shawl

Leonarda Shawl by Laura Chau

What Is Being Made

The Leonarda Shawl is an elegant and versatile accessory designed by Laura Chau, available in three distinct configurations to suit different styling preferences and yarn quantities. This knitting pattern offers knitters the flexibility to create a scarf, shawl, or stole—each with its own unique construction method and finished dimensions. The design is particularly well-suited for showcasing special sock yarns, making it an ideal project for utilizing premium fingering weight skeins.

Design Options and Sizing

The pattern provides three size and shape options:

• Scarf: 58 inches wingspan by 19 inches depth at centre (147 x 48 cm), featuring extra-long points designed for wrapping around the neck
• Shawl: 75 inches wingspan by 24 inches depth at centre (190 x 60 cm), offering generous coverage for wearing over the shoulders
• Stole: 66 inches long by 11.5 inches deep (168 x 29 cm), which can be converted into an infinity scarf by sewing the short ends together

Construction Techniques

The Leonarda Shawl employs distinct construction methods depending on which version you choose. The Scarf and Shawl are both worked from the top down in a modified triangular shape, allowing knitters to try on the piece as it grows and adjust the final length as desired. This top-down approach provides flexibility for customization. The Stole, by contrast, is worked sideways by casting on for the length of the piece, offering a different rhythm and approach to the construction process. The sideways construction of the Stole also enables the creative option of joining the short ends to transform it into a wearable infinity scarf.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Leonarda Shawl features two primary stitch techniques that create its distinctive visual character:

• Elongated Garter Stitch: This foundational stitch pattern creates a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges, providing visual interest and a classic aesthetic
• Drop-Stitch Twist Pattern: An unusual and playful element that adds complexity and elegance to the design, creating openwork details that enhance the accessory's visual appeal

The combination of these stitches results in a fabric that is both structurally sound and visually engaging, making the Leonarda Shawl an interesting knitting experience for intermediate-level knitters.

Yarn and Materials

The Leonarda Shawl is designed to be worked in fingering weight yarn, which is considerably finer than the 4-ply weight category and allows for delicate, detailed stitch definition. Yarn requirements vary by size:

• Scarf: 400 yards (365 meters)
• Shawl: 800 yards (730 meters)
• Stole: 770 yards (704 meters)

The pattern sample is shown knitted in Indigodragonfly MCN Sock yarn, a premium blend containing 80% merino wool, 10% cashmere, and 10% nylon. This particular yarn provides 400 yards per 4-ounce (115-gram) skein. The inclusion of merino and cashmere creates a soft, luxurious drape, while the nylon adds durability and elasticity—ideal characteristics for a shawlette or stole that will be worn frequently. The fingering weight construction allows knitters to showcase the subtle color variations and sheen of high-quality sock yarns.

Skill Level

The Leonarda Shawl is rated as an intermediate difficulty project, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to explore more complex stitch patterns and construction techniques. The combination of garter stitch and drop-stitch elements requires attention to detail and familiarity with stitch manipulation, while remaining accessible to experienced beginner-to-intermediate knitters.

Pattern Details

This downloadable PDF pattern has been technically edited by Alexandra Virgiel, ensuring accuracy and clarity for knitters. The pattern is available as a digital download, allowing immediate access to begin your project.