931 Sapodilla - Shawl Knitting Pattern for Women in Valley Yarns 2/14 Alpaca Silk

931 Sapodilla Shawl Knitting Pattern

What is Being Made

The 931 Sapodilla is a long and elegant wrap designed by Julie Turjoman, perfect for year-round wear. This sophisticated shawl features an allover lace diamond pattern worked in a single color, creating a stunning accessory suitable as a gift or personal project. The finished wrap measures approximately 17 inches wide by 72 inches long, making it a generous and versatile piece that drapes beautifully.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern calls for Valley Yarns Alpaca/Silk, a luxurious blend composed of 80% alpaca and 20% silk. One cone of yarn is required, containing 8 ounces and 1,736 yards total. The sample shown is worked in French Blue, a classic color that showcases the lace pattern elegantly. US 6 (4mm) needles are used to achieve the proper gauge, along with stitch markers and a tapestry needle for finishing.

Techniques and Construction

The Sapodilla is constructed using several key knitting techniques that make it an ideal first lace project despite its advanced beginner skill level. The shawl is worked flat in a seamless, single piecebottom-up construction method allows knitters to work from the cast-on edge upward, making it easy to adjust the final length if desired. The lace technique creates openwork sections that add visual interest and reduce weight, making this wrap suitable for various seasons.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern featured throughout this design is the Diamond Lace stitch, which repeats over a multiple of 10 stitches plus 1, with a 20-row repeat. This classic lace motif creates the signature diamond shapes across the fabric. The pattern employs fundamental lace stitches including:

• Yarn overs (yo) – creating the openwork holes characteristic of lace
• Knit stitches (k) – forming the solid fabric between lace sections
• Knit 2 together (k2tog) – a right-leaning decrease that balances yarn overs
• Slip, slip, knit (ssk) – a left-leaning decrease that pairs with yarn overs for shaping

These fundamental decreases and yarn overs work in concert to create the balanced diamond lace pattern without adding bulk to the finished piece.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 24 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) when measured over the Diamond Lace stitch in blocked form. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished measurements and ensuring the lace pattern displays as intended. The pattern is offered in one size (O/S), measuring approximately 17 inches wide by 72 inches long.

Skill Level and Pattern Difficulty

Rated as an advanced beginner project, the 931 Sapodilla is an excellent introduction to lace knitting for those with solid fundamental skills. The straightforward Diamond Lace stitch pattern repeats consistently throughout, allowing knitters to develop rhythm and confidence with lace techniques. The single-color, seamless construction eliminates additional complexity, making this an approachable yet rewarding first lace project.