Hugin & Munin

Hugin & Munin Shawl by Anna Dalvi

Project Overview

Hugin & Munin is an advanced knitted shawl inspired by Norse mythology, specifically the two ravens belonging to Odin. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a large, dramatic triangular shawl with a generous wingspan, perfect for knitters seeking a complex and meaningful project with cultural significance.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a substantial triangular shawl with impressive finished dimensions. The completed shawl measures 136 cm (54 inches) in wingspan and 52 cm (20.5 inches) in height when blocked, making it a statement piece suitable for wrapping or displaying. The design incorporates mythological elements through its construction and stitch patterns, creating a garment that tells a story as you knit.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Hugin & Munin shawl employs several advanced knitting techniques that justify its advanced difficulty rating. The pattern begins with a cable cast-on foundation and uses strategic yarn-over increases to create the triangular shape. Knitters will work with stitch markers to manage pattern repeats and directional changes. The construction includes both stockinette stitch sections and charted pattern work, requiring knitters to read and interpret stitch charts—a skill essential for advanced projects. Blocking is a critical finishing step, as the gauge is measured on blocked fabric, indicating that the shawl requires wet blocking to achieve its final dimensions and drape.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The foundation of this shawl relies on fundamental stitches executed with precision. Stockinette stitch forms the base fabric, created by knitting right-side rows and purling wrong-side rows. Yarn-overs (yo) are used extensively to create both lace elements and the increases necessary for the triangular expansion. The pattern incorporates garter stitch edges (knit every row) at the borders to frame the piece and provide stability. Slip markers (sl marker) are used to track pattern sections and increases. The pattern references charted stitch work for additional pattern complexity, though the specific chart details are indicated as continuing beyond the provided excerpt.

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: The pattern calls for 1 skein of Tyr from Raventwist, a 4-ply weight yarn composed of 85% merino wool and 15% nylon. Each skein provides 425 yards (389 meters) and weighs 97 grams. The suggested colorway is Raven's Wing, though the pattern allows for similar 4-ply yarns. The merino-nylon blend provides elasticity and durability while the 4-ply weight creates a fabric with excellent stitch definition for charted patterns.

Needles: US size 5 (3.75 mm) needles are required for this project. The pattern also calls for a large-eyed, blunt needle for weaving in ends and any finishing work.

Gauge: The pattern specifies 16 stitches and 33 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch on blocked fabric. Achieving proper gauge is essential for this project to reach the intended finished dimensions.

Pattern Construction Details

The shawl begins with a modest foundation of 5 stitches using a cable cast-on, then expands through a series of strategic yarn-over increases. The initial set-up rows establish the stitch markers and directional flow. The main body of the pattern works through 54 rows of increases, building from 5 stitches to 163 stitches on the needles. This systematic expansion creates the triangular silhouette characteristic of modern shawl design. Following the increase section, the pattern transitions into charted stitch work that adds visual interest and complexity to the finished piece.

Skill Level Considerations

Designated as an advanced pattern, Hugin & Munin is best suited for experienced knitters. The combination of chart reading, multiple stitch types, and the need to maintain consistent tension over a large piece requires solid foundational skills. The extended row count and increasing stitch count demand attention to detail and pattern awareness throughout the project. Knitters should be comfortable troubleshooting mistakes and managing multiple pattern elements simultaneously.