Linnaeum

Linnæum Knitted Stole by Åsa Tricosa

What Is Being Made

Linnæum is a generously sized knitted stole designed as a late summer and early autumn wrap. Measuring approximately 65 cm by 225 cm (24" by 89"), this rectangular shawl drapes elegantly around the shoulders to provide warmth on cool mornings and breezy evenings. The stole functions as a versatile layering piece that transitions seamlessly between seasons, offering both style and practical comfort.

Design and Pattern Structure

The Linnæum stole features a thoughtfully balanced pattern composition that combines simplicity with visual interest. Simple mesh sections alternate with lily stitch throughout the design, creating a rhythm that prevents the overall piece from feeling monotonous while maintaining an accessible construction. The pattern includes only one pattern row that repeats, making it manageable for intermediate knitters to follow and memorize as they progress through the project.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This pattern employs several foundational and intermediate knitting techniques:

• Mesh stitch creates an open, airy fabric ideal for layering pieces
• Lily stitch provides textural variation and visual relief in plainer sections
• Yarn overs (yo) contribute to the openwork and lacy qualities
• Slip stitches including the specialized 3-into-5 decrease (sl2 tog knitwise, sl1 knitwise, slip these 3 sts back to left needle, knit into the back legs of these 3 sts, k1, yo, k1) create decorative shaping
• Knit 2 together (k2tog) decreases for shaping
• Make 1 left (M1L) increases for construction
• Knit slip wyf (ksk) technique combining knit and slip stitches

Yarn and Materials

The pattern accommodates multiple yarn weight options, supporting 3-ply, 4-ply, and sport weight yarns. The designer suggests Midwinter Yarns Lithuanian Linen (100% linen, 450 m / 492 yds per 100 g) as the primary yarn choice, with a color combination of Turmeric (main color, 2 skeins) and Oatmeal (contrast color, 1 skein). Linen yarn is praised for its practical qualities: it becomes progressively softer and more supple with each wear and wash, making it an excellent investment for a frequently worn accessory. Alternative fiber suggestions include mohair lace yarn for those seeking instant softness and warmth, or any natural, nature-friendly dyed yarns. The pattern requires standard knitting needles appropriate to the chosen yarn weight.

Skill Level

Rated as intermediate difficulty, Linnæum is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle pattern repeats, multiple stitch types, and specialty decreases. The single pattern row that repeats throughout makes the project more accessible than complex multi-row patterns, while the various stitch techniques provide satisfying skill development.