Flick of the Wrist

Flick of the Wrist Asymmetric Shawl by Emma Sadler

Project Overview

Flick of the Wrist is an asymmetric knit shawl designed by Emma Sadler to showcase a coordinated 5-color yarn pack. This intermediate-level knitting project features a gradient color progression, beginning with the lightest shade and finishing with the darkest, creating a striking visual effect. The shawl is an ideal project for knitters seeking a portable, engaging design that works beautifully for television knitting or travel crafting.

Design and Construction

The asymmetric shaping of this shawl creates visual interest and dimension. The pattern is structured around repeating stitch sequences that are straightforward to memorize, allowing knitters to work without constant pattern reference once the repeat is established. This makes the project particularly suitable for intermediate knitters who want to develop rhythm and muscle memory in their knitting practice.

Pattern Format and Instructions

The pattern provides both abbreviated written instructions and charted formats, giving knitters flexibility in how they prefer to follow directions. The repeating stitch sequences are designed to be intuitive and quick to learn, making this pattern accessible for knitters who may be newer to reading charts or prefer traditional written patterns.

Yarn and Materials

• Yarn Weight: Sport weight
• Yarn Fiber: 100% Merino Wool (Milla Mia Naturally Soft)
• Yardage Required: 5 x 50g skeins (approximately 625 meters total based on standard sport weight yardage)
• Needles: 4.5mm/US7 straight or circular needles for working flat

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 24 stitches and 26 rows in stocking stitch on 4.5mm/US7 needles, measuring 4 x 4 inches (10 x 10 centimeters). The shawl is available in one size, making it a versatile finished project with universal appeal.

Knitting Techniques

This project employs stocking stitch as the primary fabric structure, a fundamental knit technique that creates a smooth, classic appearance. The use of stitch repeats throughout the pattern encourages knitters to develop consistent tension and rhythm, skills that translate across many knitting projects. The asymmetric construction adds an intermediate-level design challenge that goes beyond basic rectangular shawls.

Yarn Selection

The sample shown in the pattern was created using Milla Mia Naturally Soft, a 100% Merino Wool sport weight yarn. Merino wool is prized for its softness, breathability, and gentle drape—qualities that make it an excellent choice for shawl knitting. Sport weight yarn provides a balanced fabric weight that works well for shawls, offering structure without excessive bulk, and the five coordinated colors in the pack are specifically selected to work harmoniously together in this gradient design.