Riverside Wrap

Riverside Wrap by Anna Dalvi

What is Being Made

The Riverside Wrap is a knitted shawl designed by Anna Dalvi, crafted as a versatile accessory that functions as both a wrap and an adjustable scarf or stole. The finished blocked dimensions measure 33 cm (13 inches) in width with 3 repeats and 223 cm (88 inches) in length, though the length is adjustable through the pattern structure. This intermediate-level knitting project creates an elegant layering piece suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Techniques Used

The Riverside Wrap employs several intermediate knitting techniques that build skill and create visual interest. The pattern begins with a cabled cast-on using a double strand of yarn, which provides a sturdy, decorative foundation edge. After establishing the cast-on, one strand is cut away, leaving sufficient length for weaving in during finishing. The construction involves charted pattern work, following a detailed chart that guides stitch placement and shaping throughout the piece. The pattern incorporates stitch increases that effectively double the number of stitches by the end of the top edging section, creating graduated shaping. The wrap is constructed in multiple sections—Piece A serves as the top edging and is later grafted to Piece B using a tapestry needle, a technique that creates an invisible seam and seamless integration between sections. The adjustable length feature allows knitters to customize their finished wrap by working additional pattern repeats as desired.

Stitches Used

While the complete stitch dictionary is detailed in the charted pattern sections, the Riverside Wrap utilizes fundamental knitting stitches organized through chart-based instructions. The pattern includes basic knit and purl stitches as the foundation, combined through the charted design to create textural and visual elements. The stitch count progression—beginning at 57 stitches (with optional multiples of 12 for wider variations) and increasing to 114 stitches—demonstrates the use of strategic increases integrated into the pattern repeats. Rows 15-30 are repeated once, and the pattern continues through row 42, allowing knitters to follow visual chart references rather than relying solely on written-out row-by-row instructions.

Materials and Yarn

The Riverside Wrap requires 1 skein (4 oz) of 6/2 Rayon Tencel yarn containing 600 yards, classified as 4-ply weight yarn. The pattern suggests Yarntopia Treasures or similar yarn sources, indicating that any 6/2 Rayon Tencel or comparable weight yarn will work for this project. Rayon Tencel is a breathable, lustrous fiber that drapes beautifully, making it ideal for wrap and shawl construction. The pattern calls for 4.5 mm needles as the primary tool, with an optional larger needle (approximately 8 mm size) available for specific techniques or adjustments. A tapestry needle is essential for weaving in yarn ends and performing the grafting technique that joins Piece A to Piece B. The relatively modest yardage requirement makes this an efficient project that showcases yarn qualities without requiring extensive fiber investment.