Garter Graffiti Shawl

Garter Graffiti Shawl by Ester Puente

What Is Being Made

The Garter Graffiti Shawl is a relaxing, beginner-friendly triangular shawl designed by Ester D. Puente for Industrial Whimsy Supplies. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a finished shawl measuring approximately 27 inches from tip to top and 66–70 inches wide, making it an ideal accessory for layering and draping. The design celebrates the tactile pleasure of garter stitch fabric, inviting knitters to combine multiple yarn colors in a creative, personalized approach to shawl construction.

Techniques and Construction

The Garter Graffiti Shawl employs straightforward knitting techniques suitable for beginners. The primary construction method uses garter stitch, which is created by knitting every row on both sides of the work. This fundamental stitch creates a reversible, textured fabric known for its characteristic "squish" and comfort. The pattern incorporates kf&b (knit into the front and back) increases to shape the triangular silhouette of the shawl as it expands from the tip upward. The design is flexible regarding gauge—knitters are encouraged to prioritize the feel and drape of their chosen yarn rather than adhering to strict gauge requirements. Garter stitch naturally stretches with blocking and wearing, allowing the finished dimensions to evolve and adapt to the wearer's preferences.

Stitches Used

• Garter Stitch: The foundation stitch throughout the shawl, created by knitting every row for a reversible, textured fabric
• Kf&b (Knit into Front and Back): An increase stitch used to shape the triangular construction

Materials and Yarn Weight

The Garter Graffiti Shawl is designed for DK or Worsted weight yarn, requiring a total of 610+ yards. The pattern accommodates creative color work through multiple yarn options. The striped sample version uses 2 skeins of Tosh Merino DK and 1 skein of Tosh Vintage. An alternative openwork version combines 2 skeins of Tosh Vintage and 1 skein of Malabrigo Rios. Knitters are encouraged to select their favorite yarns in preferred colors to customize the shawl's appearance. Construction requires Size 9 needles and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends. The pattern uses color designation abbreviations—Color A refers to the speckled or lighter yarn, while Color B represents the solid or contrast yarn.

Difficulty Level

Rated as a beginner pattern, the Garter Graffiti Shawl is accessible to knitters new to shawl construction. The reliance on garter stitch and basic increases makes this project an ideal introduction to triangular shawl shaping without requiring advanced techniques or complex stitch patterns.