Midge

Midge Crescent Shawl by Patty Olson Designs

What is Being Made

Midge is a crescent-shaped shawl designed by Patty Olson Designs and named after the vintage name derived from the Greek word Magarites, meaning pearl. This top-down knit shawl features a graceful curved silhouette with a finished depth of 18 inches at the center and an inside curve measurement of 53 inches. The design captures the spirit of independence and joy, making it an elegant accessory suitable for various occasions.

Construction and Techniques

Midge is worked from the top down using a two-color knitting technique, though it can also be beautifully executed in a single colorway for those preferring a monochromatic approach. The shawl progresses through distinct sections, each showcasing different knitting techniques:

• Stockinette Stitch Foundation: The shawl begins with a simple stockinette stitch base, providing a clean, smooth foundation for the design
• Textured Lace Section: The middle portion transitions into textured lace work, adding visual interest and dimension to the piece
• Lace Border Finish: The shawl concludes with a delicate lace border that frames the crescent shape elegantly

Stitches and Abbreviations

The pattern uses standard knitting abbreviations including MC (main color), CC (contrast color), K (knit), P (purl), and K2tog (knit 2 together). These fundamental stitches combine to create the textured and lace elements throughout the design.

Materials and Gauge

Midge is designed to be worked on a US6 (4.00mm) circular needle measuring 40 inches in length, or a size adjusted to obtain the specified blocked gauge. The pattern calls for DK, sport, or worsted weight yarn, offering flexibility for fiber choices across multiple weight categories. The blocked gauge is 19 stitches and 27 rows per 4 inches in stockinette stitch, which should be achieved after blocking for accurate finished dimensions.

Skill Level

Midge is rated as an intermediate difficulty pattern, making it suitable for knitters with some experience who are comfortable working with circular needles, managing color changes, and executing both stockinette and lace stitches.