Bifocal (Anamorphic)

Bifocal Anamorphic Knit Afghan and Shawl by Woolly Thoughts

What Is Being Made

Bifocal is a semi-circular afghan or shawl designed by Pat Ashforth and Steve Plummer of Woolly Thoughts. This knitted piece features an anamorphic design—a mathematically distorted pattern that reveals its true form when viewed through a cylindrical mirror placed at the center of the work. The afghan measures approximately 84 cm (33 inches) in radius with a total diameter of 168 cm (66 inches). Instructions are included for adapting the pattern into a circular configuration if preferred, making it a versatile project suitable for either blanket or shawl applications.

Design and Concept

Bifocal represents an anamorphic interpretation of the Double Base design, demonstrating the mathematical principle of anamorphosis. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, anamorphosis is defined as a distorted projection or drawing that appears normal when viewed from a particular point or through a suitable mirror. The semi-circular knit pattern was generated using Anamorph Me!, a free morphing program created by Phillip Kent, which transformed the original design into the semi-circular format. When a cylindrical mirror is positioned at the center of the completed afghan, the distorted knit pattern resolves into the original Double Base design, creating an interactive and visually striking craft project.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This afghan is worked entirely in garter stitch, the fundamental knit stitch created by knitting every row. Garter stitch produces a dense, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges and is ideal for blankets and throws due to its durability and warmth. The semi-circular construction requires shaping to achieve the proper proportions, and the anamorphic design is created through strategic increases and stitch placement rather than color work or complex stitch patterns, making it accessible to intermediate-level knitters.

Materials and Yarn Weight

The original Bifocal afghan was crafted in Double Knitting (DK) weight yarn, a medium-weight option that creates a fabric with good drape and structure. However, the pattern notes that any yarn weight could be used, allowing crafters to adapt the project based on personal preference, available materials, and desired finished dimensions. DK weight yarn on appropriate needles produces a balanced fabric suitable for both the mathematical precision required by the anamorphic design and the practical functionality of a full-sized afghan or shawl.

Difficulty Level

Bifocal is rated as an intermediate knitting project. While the garter stitch base is beginner-friendly, the semi-circular shaping, understanding of the anamorphic concept, and management of a large-scale project require intermediate skills and pattern-reading ability. Knitters should be comfortable with increasing stitches, following written instructions, and managing a substantial number of stitches on needles.

Project Categories

This downloadable PDF pattern from independent designer Woolly Thoughts fits multiple project categories, functioning as both a blanket/throw and a shawl depending on how the crafter chooses to construct and wear the finished piece.