Linger Shawl

Linger Shawl by Laura Chau

What is Being Made

The Linger Shawl is a top-down triangular shawl featuring asymmetrical design elements. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a finished shawl measuring 52 inches by 22 inches (132 x 56 centimeters), making it an elegant accessory suitable for layering or draping.

Design and Construction Techniques

This shawl employs a distinctive construction method that begins with a circular cast on worked from the top down. The asymmetrical design divides the shawl into two contrasting halves: one half features Rick-Rack Lace patterning throughout, while the opposite half is worked in stockinette stitch with a narrow lace yarn column running through it for visual interest. The border is worked side to side and knit directly onto the edge of the shawl, eliminating the need for a long edge cast off.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Linger Shawl incorporates several key stitches and techniques:

• Stockinette Stitch – used for one half of the shawl body
• Rick-Rack Lace – a decorative lace pattern covering the other half of the shawl
• Lace Yarn Column – a narrow lace detail running through the stockinette half
• Circular Cast On – the starting method for the top-down construction

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The pattern is designed for fingering weight yarn, requiring approximately 510 yards (466 meters) total. The sample shown uses Rohrspatz & Wollmeise Twin, a high-quality blend of 80% merino superwash and 20% polyamide, with one 150-gram skein (510 yards) providing enough yarn with very little leftover. Knitters will need US 6 (4mm) circular needles measuring 32 inches (80 centimeters) or longer, along with a tapestry needle and stitch markers.

Gauge and Difficulty Level

This intermediate-level pattern requires attention to gauge for proper finished dimensions. The stockinette sections should measure 18 stitches and 32 rows over a 4-inch (10-centimeter) square when blocked. The Rick-Rack Lace sections have a different gauge of 16 stitches and 28 rows over a 4-inch (10-centimeter) square when blocked, reflecting the openness of the lace pattern.

Pattern Format

The Linger Shawl pattern is provided in a downloadable PDF format and includes both charted and written directions, allowing knitters to follow their preferred method. The pattern was technically edited by Alexandra Virgiel and is designed by Laura Chau.