Restrikted

Restrikted Shawl by Helena Granholm

What is Being Made

Restrikted is a triangular knitted shawl designed by Helena Granholm. This intermediate-level project creates a sophisticated wrap featuring decorative motifs along the spine. The finished shawl measures 100 cm (39.3 inches) in length, with a wingspan of 180 cm (70.8 inches) and a depth of 68 cm (26.7 inches), making it a generous accessory suitable for layering or draping.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Restrikted shawl employs several key knitting techniques to achieve its elegant construction. The design features a triangular shape with motifs along the spine, created through strategic stitch placement and shaping. The pattern utilizes twisted stitches to form the easy middle section, adding textural interest and visual depth to the fabric.

The stitch work combines fundamental knitting techniques with decorative elements:

• Knit stitches (K) form the primary fabric structure
• Purl stitches (P) create contrast and definition
• Twisted stitches (K1tbl) add dimensional texture throughout the middle sections
• Stockinette stitch provides a smooth, classic base for the shawl

The pattern is worked back and forth in rows using stitch markers to denote pattern sections and spine placement, allowing knitters to maintain pattern accuracy across the triangular expansion.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Restrikted shawl requires approximately 140 grams and 560 meters (612 yards) of yarn. The designer suggests La Bien Aimée Twist Nouveau, a 100% non-superwash merino wool available in 100-gram skeins with 400 meters (437 yards) per skein. The sample shown was knitted in the Coquelicot colorway.

The recommended yarn weight is 4-ply, which provides excellent stitch definition and drape for shawl construction. The yarn's merino fiber content offers warmth, breathability, and a luxurious feel against the skin.

Needles and Gauge

This project requires a 3.5 mm (US size 4) circular needle. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for proper shawl dimensions and drape. The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows over 10 centimeters (4 inches) in stockinette stitch, measured after blocking. Knitters should swatch and block their gauge swatch before beginning the project to ensure accurate finished measurements.

Additional Notions and Tools

Beyond the primary needles and yarn, the Restrikted shawl requires minimal additional supplies:

• 2 stitch markers for tracking pattern sections and spine placement
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and finishing

Pattern Structure and Difficulty

Rated as an intermediate-level project, the Restrikted shawl is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle shaping and decorative stitch techniques. The pattern begins with a cast-on of 23 stitches and expands through strategic increases to create the triangular silhouette. The middle sections feature an easy-to-follow pattern using twisted stitches, making the construction process manageable for intermediate knitters while still delivering sophisticated visual results.

The pattern includes clear abbreviations and row-by-row instructions, with setup rows establishing the spine and edge stitches before the main pattern begins.