Fossil

Fossil Shawl by Larissa Brown

What Is Being Made

Fossil is a triangular knit shawl designed by independent designer Larissa Brown. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a generous wrap-style shawl with an approximate wingspan of 72 inches (183 cm) and a maximum depth of 36 inches (91.5 cm). The shawl works beautifully as a versatile layering piece suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Construction Method and Technique

Fossil employs a distinctive construction technique that begins at the small point and spirals outward toward the larger edge through strategic increases. This bottom-up approach allows knitters to customize the finished size by simply continuing to work until reaching desired dimensions. The shawl is structured in repeating sections, with each section building upon the previous one through a combination of Stockinette and Garter stitch rows. Each section concludes with an eyelet increase row that creates both shaping and decorative openwork details. This methodical progression creates the characteristic triangular silhouette while maintaining visual interest throughout the knitting process.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch: Forms the primary fabric base, creating smooth, refined texture across the shawl
• Garter Stitch: Provides textural contrast and structural definition within each section
• Eyelet Increase Rows: Decorative openwork rows that serve dual purposes of shaping and embellishment, positioned at the conclusion of each section

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for Quince & Co. Osprey, an aran weight wool yarn. A single color version requires 4 skeins (680 yards total / 620 meters), with each skein weighing 100 grams and providing 170 yards (155 meters). The sample shown features audouin, an undyed natural wool, accented with fox-colored contrast sections. For a two-color design incorporating contrasting eyelet rows, an additional fifth skein is needed. Lighter weight yarns may be substituted, though this will affect the finished gauge and drape characteristics.

Needles and Tools

• Circular Needles: US 10 (6.5 mm) or US 9 (5.5 mm), with sufficient length to accommodate approximately 180 stitches
• Large-eyed Needle: For weaving in yarn ends
• Blocking Supplies: Pins and preferred blocking tools to set the finished shawl and enhance drape

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

The pattern specifies a gauge of 14 stitches and 16 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when worked in Stockinette Stitch, measured in an unblocked state with slight stretching applied. It is important to note that the finished gauge becomes considerably looser and more open after blocking, which significantly impacts the final drape and dimensions. Knitters substituting alternative yarns should expect gauge variations that will alter the overall size of the completed shawl.

Difficulty Level

Fossil is rated as a beginner-friendly pattern, making it an excellent choice for knitters new to shawl construction. The straightforward increase methodology and reliance on fundamental stitches—Stockinette, Garter, and basic eyelet techniques—create an accessible project that builds confidence while producing a sophisticated, wearable garment.