Beyond the Maples

Beyond the Maples Shawl by Hanks And Needles

What Is Being Made

Beyond the Maples is a knitted shawl pattern designed by Makenzie Alvarez for Hanks And Needles. This downloadable PDF pattern creates an elegant triangular shawl available in two finished sizes: 64" or 72" wingspan by 29.5" or 33.5" depth. The design showcases the interplay of classic knitting stitches combined with intertwining cables, creating a sophisticated garment that celebrates the natural beauty of each stitch through a two-color construction.

Techniques and Stitches Used

The Beyond the Maples shawl employs cable knitting as its primary design feature, with cables interwoven throughout the pattern to create visual interest and texture. The base fabric is worked in Stockinette Stitch, which provides a smooth, classic background that allows the cable work to stand out prominently. The pattern includes a Garter Tab Cast On technique, which creates a reinforced edge ideal for shawl construction. Classic knitting stitches are mixed strategically to enhance the overall design aesthetic, making this an intermediate-level project suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle cable work.

Materials Required

This pattern calls for Sport Weight Yarn in two coordinating colors. The sample was created using The Happiest Yarn, a premium blend of 100% wool comprising 4 parts Shetland wool from Wing and a Prayer Farm, 1 part Romney wool from Doc Mason's Wool, and 1 part Merino wool, all spun by Battenkill Fibers. Yardage requirements are 150 yards per 2 ounces, with knitters needing 3 hanks in Oatmeal (Color 1) for the smaller size or 4 hanks for the larger size, plus 3 or 4 hanks in Natural (Color 2) respectively.

Tools and Notions

• US6/4mm Circular needle, 32"/80cm minimum (or size needed to obtain gauge)
• G Crochet Hook (for the Garter Tab Cast On)
• Cable Needle (for working cable stitches)
• 4 Stitch markers (for tracking pattern repeats and shaping)
• Scrap yarn (for the cast on technique)
• Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends)
• Row Counter (optional, for tracking rows)

Gauge and Specifications

The pattern is designed to a gauge of 20 stitches by 28 rows equals 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for obtaining the finished dimensions specified in the pattern. This intermediate-level shawl is presented as a downloadable PDF pattern from independent designer Hanks And Needles.