Filmstrip

Filmstrip Shawl by SuviKnits

What Is Being Made

Filmstrip is an eye-catching triangle-shaped shawl designed by Suvi Simola. This knitted accessory features a striking striped pattern and is worked from one tip to another, creating a dynamic visual effect. The finished shawl measures 60 inches (152.5 cm) wide across the top edge and 14 inches (35.5 cm) deep, making it a versatile triangular wrap suitable for various styling options.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting pattern employs short rows as the primary shaping technique to create the distinctive stripes throughout the design. The shawl also utilizes the wrap and turn (w&t) technique, which is essential for executing short rows smoothly and preventing holes in the fabric. These techniques allow the knitter to build the striped pattern while maintaining the triangular silhouette of the finished piece.

Stitches Used

The pattern incorporates fundamental knitting stitches appropriate for an intermediate skill level. Key stitches include:

• Knit (k) - the basic stitch forming the foundation of the fabric
• Knit 2 together (k2tog) - a decrease stitch used for shaping
• Make 1 (m1) - an increase stitch created by making a firm backward loop over the right needle
• Slip stitch (sl) - used for various construction purposes

The pattern also incorporates wrap and turn (w&t) as a stitch technique integral to the short-row construction method.

Materials and Tools

Filmstrip is worked in sport weight yarn, requiring a total of 620 yards (570 meters) of yarn divided between two colors. The pattern calls for 310 yards (285 meters) of main color (MC) and 310 yards (285 meters) of contrasting color (CC). The sample shown uses Mrs. Crosby Hat Box yarn, which features a luxurious blend of 75% superwash merino wool, 15% silk, and 10% cashmere, with each 100-gram skein containing 317 yards (290 meters). The colorway shown pairs #Crème Fraîche as the main color with #Wild Huckleberry as the contrasting color.

Knitting requires a size 6 US (4 mm) circular needle and locking stitch markers to track progress throughout the construction.

Pattern Difficulty and Suitability

Classified as an intermediate-level pattern, Filmstrip is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to expand their technique repertoire. The short-row construction and wrap-and-turn technique require attention to detail and understanding of shaping methods, making this project an excellent opportunity to develop advanced shaping skills while creating a visually impressive finished garment.