Fun Run

Fun Run Shawl by Barbara Benson

Project Overview

Fun Run is a beginner-friendly triangular shawl designed by Barbara Benson. This knitted accessory measures 39 inches (99 cm) wide by 72 inches (183 cm) long, making it a generous wrap suitable for layering or draping. The design combines simple construction techniques with striking visual impact through strategic yarn pairing.

What Is Being Made

Fun Run is a bottom-up triangle shawl, one of the most approachable shawl shapes for knitters new to the form. The triangular silhouette is achieved through consistent edge increases worked on every row, creating a symmetrical, expandable shape that grows from a small cast-on edge into a large, wearable wrap.

Knitting Techniques Used

This project employs fundamental knitting techniques that remain accessible to beginners while producing professional results. The primary construction method relies on edge increases, where two stitches are increased per row—one stitch on each edge—to build the triangular shape progressively. The design also incorporates striped colorwork, a straightforward method of color introduction that requires knitters to alternate between two different yarn balls, working two rows in one color before switching to the second color. This technique avoids the complexity of fair isle or intarsia work while delivering bold visual contrast.

The combination of simple increases with alternating stripes creates an optical illusion of complexity; the variegated and speckled qualities of the chosen yarns add visual texture and movement that make the finished piece appear more intricate than its construction method requires.

Stitches Used

• k (knit): The fundamental stitch forming the base fabric
• p (purl): The reverse of the knit stitch, used for textural variation
• kfb (knit front and back): An increase stitch that creates two stitches from one, used for edge shaping
• k2tog (knit 2 together): A right-leaning decrease that reduces stitch count
• p2tog (purl 2 together): A decrease worked on the purl side
• ssk (slip, slip, knit): A left-leaning decrease stitch for balanced shaping
• pm (place marker): A technique for marking specific points in the pattern
• sm (slip marker): Moving a marker from one needle to the next without working it
• rep (repeat): Indicates pattern sections worked multiple times

Materials Required

Fun Run calls for two contrasting skeins of yarn totaling 510 yards (466 meters) and 135 grams each. The project is worked with 4-ply weight yarn, a medium-weight option that knits to a fabric with good drape and durability. The designer pairs The Fiber Seed Sprout yarn in two contrasting colorways—specifically variegated and speckled yarns—to maximize visual interest.

Knitters will need a US #6 (4 mm) circular needle or the size required to achieve proper gauge with their chosen yarn. Additional notions include six stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and finishing.

Gauge and Sizing

Proper gauge is essential for achieving the intended finished dimensions. Knitters should swatch with their selected yarn and needles to verify gauge before beginning, as variations will affect the final measurements of the 39-inch by 72-inch wrap.