Droid please

Droid, please. Knit Shawl by Kelly Spenhoff

What is Being Made

Droid, please. is a downloadable knit shawl pattern designed by Kelly Spenhoff. This intermediate-level shawl features a finished size of 44 inches (112 cm) wide and 18 inches (46 cm) tall, making it a substantial triangular or crescent-shaped wrap suitable for layering or wearing as a statement accessory. The design incorporates playful elements inspired by its name, with structured cable work and colorwork details that create visual interest.

Techniques Used

This shawl pattern employs several intermediate knitting techniques that add complexity and visual appeal to the finished piece. Knitters will work with a garter tab cast-on, a method that creates a neat, finished edge at the beginning of the shawl. The pattern requires the ability to pick up a loop in a stitch below, a technique used to create seamless transitions and add stitches without traditional yarn-over increases. Cable work forms a central design element, allowing for dimensional texture throughout the shawl.

Stitches Used

The stitch vocabulary for this pattern includes fundamental and intermediate knitting stitches. Knitters will use knit and purl stitches as the foundation, working primarily in stockinette stitch, which serves as the base fabric. Cable stitches are central to the design, specifically cable 3 back (c3b) and cable 3 front (c3f), which create twisted rope-like textures. Additional stitches include yarn overs (yo) for lace elements, purl 2 together (p2tog) for decreases, and increases (inc) to shape the shawl. The pattern also features a special stitch called make scallop (MS), which adds decorative edging. Stitch markers are used throughout to help track pattern repeats and shaping sections.

Materials and Tools

This pattern requires specific yarn weights and quantities across three colors. Color A is a variegated yarn: Lazer Sheep Yarns Lazer Sock (75% merino, 25% nylon blend; 463 yards per 100 grams), with 315 yards (288 meters) needed. Color B is black and requires only 15 yards (14 meters), used for accent details. Color C is orange: Lion Brand Touch of Merino (90% acrylic, 10% merino blend; 257 yards per 100 grams), with 110 yards (101 meters needed). Knitters will work on a US size 6 circular needle measuring 32 inches (80 cm) long, which accommodates the shawl's growing width. Additional notions include 5 stitch markers for tracking pattern sections, a cable needle for executing cable stitches, and a yarn needle for weaving in ends.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is designed in one size with finished measurements of 44 inches wide by 18 inches tall. The working gauge is 22 stitches and 29 rows per 4-inch (10 cm) square in stockinette stitch, which is essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions. Maintaining this gauge ensures proper drape and proportions in the final shawl.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to tackle cable work and specialty techniques like picking up stitches in unconventional ways. The combination of garter tabs, cables, and colorwork provides a satisfying challenge without requiring advanced expertise.