Exploding TARDIS

Exploding TARDIS Knitted Shawl by Laurie Beardsley

Project Overview

The Exploding TARDIS is an intermediate-level knitted shawl designed by Laurie Beardsley as an artistic interpretation inspired by Vincent's vision of the TARDIS. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a striking triangular shawl with a generous wingspan of 58 inches (147 cm) and a depth of 23 inches (58.5 cm), making it a substantial wrap suitable for layering or display.

Construction Method and Techniques

This shawl is constructed using the short-row technique, worked progressively from one long edge to the other. This method allows the knitter to build the shawl's triangular shape while maintaining control over the final dimensions and drape. The strategic use of short rows creates the distinctive silhouette and ensures even fabric development throughout the project.

Stitch Patterns and Edging

The shawl features two distinct stitch pattern sections:

• Body Pattern: The main fabric uses a repeating stitch pattern that creates visual interest and texture across the shawl's surface
• Feather and Fan Edging: A classic decorative edging technique frames the shawl's perimeter, adding an elegant finishing detail with characteristic scalloped or wave-like edges

Yarn Requirements and Materials

This project requires fingering weight yarn in two contrasting colors, with the following yardage specifications:

• 490 yards (448 meters) of fingering weight yarn in Color 1
• 350 yards (320 meters) of fingering weight yarn in Color 2
• Total yardage: approximately 840 yards (768 meters)

The sample shown was knitted using Lazy Cat Yarn Radiance, a premium blend of 50% superwash merino and 50% silk, with 438 yards per 100-gram skein. The colors used were "Police Box" for Color 1 and "Amber Waves" for Color 2. The designer recommends any fingering weight yarn with excellent drape characteristics, and notes that two solid or semi-solid colors work best for showcasing this pattern's design.

Tools and Notions

• Needles: US 4 (3.5 mm) circular knitting needles
• Stitch Markers: 2 stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats
• Finishing Tools: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and blocking supplies for finishing

Gauge and Sizing Information

Achieving proper gauge is important for this project, though the designer notes that gauge—particularly row gauge—is not absolutely critical. Variations in gauge will affect the total yardage consumed and the final size and drape characteristics of the finished shawl.

• Stitch Gauge: 20 stitches to 4 inches (10 cm) in the body pattern after blocking
• Row Gauge (Body): 28 rows to 4 inches (10 cm) in the body pattern after blocking
• Row Gauge (Edging): 36 rows to 4 inches (10 cm) in the feather and fan edging pattern after blocking

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate difficulty, this pattern is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are comfortable working with circular needles, managing stitch markers, and executing short-row shaping techniques. The combination of body pattern work and decorative edging provides a satisfying challenge without requiring advanced techniques.

Design Inspiration

The Exploding TARDIS shawl draws creative inspiration from science fiction imagery, specifically referencing Vincent's artistic vision of the TARDIS. The two-color construction and dynamic shaping work together to evoke the concept of an "exploding" effect, making this pattern both a functional accessory and a wearable work of art for fans of the source material.