Wolf moon

Wolf Moon Shawl by Mindy Wilkes

Project Overview

Wolf Moon is a crescent-shaped knitted shawl designed by Mindy Wilkes and named after January's full moon. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a generous wrap measuring 51.5 inches (131 cm) wide by 12 inches (30.5 cm) deep, making it ideal for layering during cold winter months. The shawl is worked in one continuous piece from the bottom edge upward, combining lace and textured stitch techniques to achieve its distinctive curved silhouette.

Knitting Techniques and Stitch Work

Wolf Moon employs a combination of lace knitting and short-row shaping to create its signature crescent form. The pattern begins with lace stitches at the bottom edge, which provide an elegant, openwork detail. Following the lace section, the design transitions into short rows worked in garter stitch, a fundamental technique that adds depth and structure while gradually building the curved shape characteristic of a crescent moon. Garter stitch—created by knitting every row—produces a reversible, textured fabric with horizontal ridges that becomes more pronounced after blocking. This combination of lace and garter stitch creates visual interest while maintaining the shawl's wearability and drape.

Yarn and Materials

The Wolf Moon shawl is designed to use 450 yards (411 meters) of aran weight yarn. The pattern sample was created using Quince & Co. Osprey, a premium yarn composed of 100% American wool with a yardage of 170 yards (155 meters) per 100 grams. Aran weight yarn, a medium-heavy weight, provides excellent warmth and structure, making it well-suited for a winter wrap. The pattern notes that while exact gauge is not critical to the fit of the finished shawl, variations in gauge will affect the final dimensions and total yardage requirements.

Tools and Equipment

• Needles: US 10.5 (6.5 mm) circular needles, 32 inches or longer, sized to achieve the recommended gauge
• Notions: Stitch markers (optional), yarn needle for weaving in ends

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 13 stitches and 16 rows per 4 inches (10 cm) in garter stitch after blocking. Achieving proper gauge ensures the shawl reaches its intended finished dimensions. Knitters should note that while the shawl's fit is not dependent on precise gauge—as it is a flexible wrap rather than a fitted garment—deviations from the recommended gauge will result in noticeable size differences and may require adjustments to the total yarn yardage needed to complete the project.

Difficulty Level

Classified as an intermediate knitting project, Wolf Moon is suitable for knitters with foundational skills in basic stitches and pattern reading. The combination of lace work and short-row shaping requires understanding of these techniques, though neither is considered advanced. Intermediate knitters should be comfortable following written instructions and managing multiple stitches on circular needles.