Winter Breath

Winter Breath Knitted Scarves and Shawls by Verena Cohrs

What is Being Made

Winter Breath is a collection of five versatile knitted scarves and shawls designed by Verena Cohrs. This downloadable PDF pattern offers multiple design versions (A through E) in four customizable sizes, allowing knitters to create finished pieces ranging from 20.5 cm to 87 cm in width. The length is customizable, making these designs adaptable to individual preferences and yarn availability. These pieces are suitable for both beginners and experienced knitters seeking elegant, wearable accessories.

Techniques and Construction

The Winter Breath designs are worked flat using a chart pattern, which provides visual guidance for stitch sequences. This approach makes the pattern accessible to knitters who prefer working from charts rather than written instructions. The designs are worked on circular needles with a cable length of at least 80 cm (32 inches), which allows for comfortable handling of wider pieces even when working flat. After completion, the pieces are blocked to achieve proper dimensions and drape, which is essential for accurate gauge and finished measurements.

Stitches and Pattern Details

The pattern utilizes a chart-based stitch pattern that varies across the five versions. Each version has distinct gauge requirements:

• Version A: 24 stitches x 36 rows over 10 x 10 cm, worked on 3 mm (US 2.5) needles
• Version B: 22 stitches x 32 rows over 10 x 10 cm, worked on 3.5 mm (US 4) needles
• Version C: 20 stitches x 28 rows over 10 x 10 cm
• Version D: 18 stitches x 26 rows over 10 x 10 cm
• Version E: 16 stitches x 22 rows over 10 x 10 cm

The gauge is measured over a 10 x 10 cm swatch worked flat in the chart pattern after blocking, ensuring accuracy for finished dimensions.

Yarn and Materials

Winter Breath accommodates multiple yarn weights, providing flexibility for different fiber preferences and desired drape. Compatible yarn weights include 3-ply, 4-ply, DK, sport, worsted, and aran. The pattern features a size 3 example knitted in Manos del Uruguay Fino, demonstrating the design's suitability for fine-weight yarns. Knitters should select circular needles in the appropriate size to achieve their desired gauge, with recommendations ranging from 3 mm (US 2.5) for finer versions to 4 mm (US 6) or larger for heavier yarns.

Size Range and Customization

The pattern offers four distinct finished widths across all versions: sizes 1, 2, 3, and 4. Width options span from 20.5 cm (8 inches) to 87 cm (34.25 inches), accommodating preferences from delicate neck scarves to generous wrap-style shawls. Since length is customizable, knitters can adjust the finished piece to their desired proportions, making this pattern suitable for various styling preferences and yarn quantities.

Difficulty Level

Winter Breath is classified as a beginner level pattern, making it an excellent choice for knitters new to shawl and scarf construction. The chart pattern format and straightforward construction provide an accessible introduction to working from charts while creating elegant, wearable accessories.