Berube

Berube Shawl by Taiga Hilliard Designs

What Is Being Made

Berube is a uniquely designed knit shawl and wrap created by independent designer Taiga Hilliard Designs. This intermediate-level project is worked flat and sideways, making it an excellent choice for knitters looking to expand their shawl-making skills. The sideways construction method allows for creative color work and is particularly well-suited to self-striping yarns, though it works beautifully with two solid colors or a mix of yarn scraps.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Berube shawl employs several fundamental knitting techniques that make it ideal for intermediate crafters. The pattern begins with a small cast-on and uses increases throughout to create the shawl's expanding shape. Knitters will work with stitch markers to manage pattern sections and maintain structure during the sideways construction. The pattern accommodates multiple working methods, allowing crafters to choose between double-pointed needles (DPN), two circular needles, or the Magic Loop method, depending on their preference and experience level.

Stitches and Stitch Work

The pattern utilizes essential knitting stitches including knit-front-and-back (KFB) increases, which are worked strategically to shape the shawl. Knit stitches and purl stitches form the foundation of the design, with the purl rows adding textural interest. The use of stitch markers and the repeat sequences create a structured approach to managing increases and color changes throughout the construction.

Yarn and Materials

Berube requires 1,198 yards total of yarn, divided equally between two colors: 599 yards of Color 1 (C1) and 599 yards of Color 2 (C2). The pattern was designed using Gauge Dyeworks Sock yarn in Fingering weight (4-ply), though it is specifically noted as working wonderfully with self-striping yarn, scraps, or any color combination. Knitters will need US size 6 (4.00 mm) needles and should work to a gauge of 20 stitches over 4 inches for accurate finished dimensions. The fingering-weight yarn combined with the intermediate difficulty makes this an engaging project for experienced knitters seeking a refined, wearable accessory.