Hibiscus Shawl

Hibiscus Shawl by Laura Chau

What is Being Made

The Hibiscus Shawl is a large triangular wrap designed to be versatile in wear. Measuring 60 inches across the top and 20 inches down the centre back, this shawl is generously sized to wrap around the shoulders but can also be worn as a scarf due to its scrunchy construction. The design was inspired by a trip to the Hawaiian Islands and features a distinctive hidden surprise: a twist-stitch flower integrated into the pattern.

Techniques Used

This advanced-level knitting project employs several key techniques to achieve its unique aesthetic:

• Star Mesh Pattern: An easy-to-work star mesh creates an open, lacy fabric that is characteristic of the shawl's design
• Twist Stitches: The hidden twist-stitch flower is a decorative element that adds visual interest and demonstrates intermediate stitch manipulation
• Centred Decreases: Used throughout to shape the triangular silhouette and create the structured drape of the shawl
• Circular Knitting: Worked on circular needles, allowing for seamless construction and the ability to work in the round or flat as the pattern requires

Stitches Used

The Hibiscus Shawl incorporates the following stitches and abbreviations:

• k (knit): The fundamental knit stitch
• k2tog (knit two together): A basic right-leaning decrease
• kfb (knit into the front and back of the stitch): An increase stitch that creates texture
• CDD (centred double decrease): Slip 2 stitches together as if to k2tog, knit 1, pass slipped stitches over—a decorative centered decrease
• LT (left twist): Knit the second stitch on the left needle through the back loop and leave on needle, then knit the first stitch and remove both
• RT (right twist): Knit two together and leave on needle, then knit the first stitch again and remove both stitches
• sl (slip): Slip stitches as if to purl for a clean edge or pattern work
• dec (decrease): General decreasing as specified in pattern instructions

Materials

The Hibiscus Shawl is worked in fingering weight yarn, requiring a total of 525 yards (480 metres). The sample shown was knitted in Koigu KPPPM in colour P306, using 3 skeins. Needles required are US 6 / 4mm circular needles, 24 inches (60 cm) or longer, or sized as needed to obtain the correct gauge. Stitch markers are optional but recommended for tracking pattern repeats and shaping sections.

Difficulty Level

This project is rated as advanced, making it suitable for experienced knitters who are comfortable with lace patterns, twist stitches, and shaping techniques. The combination of the star mesh pattern with the hidden twist-stitch flower requires attention to detail and familiarity with reading knitting charts and abbreviations.