Gill

Gill Shawl by Meghan Jackson

What is Being Made

Gill is an advanced knitting shawl pattern designed by Meghan Jackson. The shawl features clean, organic lines inspired by the natural structure of mushroom gills, creating a subtle modern accessory. The sample shawl measures 41 inches (104 cm) across the top and 14 inches (35.5 cm) deep at the centre, though the pattern is customizable to suit individual preferences and yarn availability.

Knitting Techniques

This advanced-level shawl employs sophisticated knitting techniques that require intermediate to advanced skill. The pattern utilizes circular needles for seamless construction, allowing knitters to work in the round or flat depending on the shawl's architecture. Cable work is incorporated into the design, as evidenced by the requirement for a cable needle in the materials list. The pattern uses stitch markers to help track pattern repeats and shaping increases, which are essential for maintaining the organic gill-like structure throughout the project.

Stitches Used

The shawl features a specialized shawl body stitch pattern that creates the characteristic gill-inspired texture. The pattern is worked over a gauge of 20 stitches and 32 rows per 4-inch (10 cm) square after blocking. Cable stitches are incorporated to enhance the dimensional, organic appearance of the design. The combination of these stitch techniques produces the clean lines and subtle modern aesthetic that defines this piece.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

Gill is designed to be knitted with Malabrigo Sock yarn, a premium yarn composed of 100% superwash merino wool. One skein of Malabrigo Sock provides 440 yards (400 metres) and weighs 100 grams (3.5 ounces). The sample shown uses the Natural colourway. The pattern accommodates yarn substitutions, though gauge and yardage requirements may vary accordingly.

Needles and Tools

• US #5 (3.75 mm) circular needles, 32 inches or longer, for the main shawl body
• US #7 (4.5 mm) circular needles, 32 inches or longer, sized two gauges larger than the main needles
• Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping
• Cable needle for working cable stitches

Pattern Notes

Gauge is not critical to the success of this project, offering flexibility for knitters working with substituted yarns. However, yardage requirements and the final size of the shawl may vary with yarn substitutions or gauge adjustments. Blocking is essential to achieve the stated gauge and to properly set the organic lines of the design. This pattern is ideal for experienced knitters seeking a modern, nature-inspired accessory project.