Lunar Spine

Lunar Spine Shawl by Attic 166

Project Overview

Lunar Spine is an intermediate-level triangle shawl designed by Amanda of Attic 166. This knitted shawl features stranded colorwork depicting lunar phases along its spine, creating an eye-catching focal point whether worn around the shoulders or draped around the neck. The shawl is knit sideways and finished with a neat i-cord edge for a polished appearance.

Construction Method and Shaping

The shawl is constructed using a sideways knitting technique, which allows for strategic shaping and unique design placement. The pattern begins with garter stitch at the widest section of the shawl, providing an accessible introduction to the project with straightforward, mindless knitting that builds confidence before transitioning to more complex colorwork. Once the widest portion is complete, the stitches progressively decrease to form the triangular silhouette, allowing the knitter to finish the project at a similar pace to how it began.

Colorwork and Design Details

The defining feature of Lunar Spine is the stranded colorwork technique used to create lunar phase motifs down the center spine of the shawl. Stranded colorwork, also known as fair isle knitting, involves carrying two colors of yarn across the back of the work and switching between them to create the pattern on the front. This technique adds visual interest and dimension while maintaining the fabric's integrity. The contrast between the main and accent colors highlights the lunar imagery throughout the design.

Finishing

The shawl is completed with an i-cord edge, a decorative and functional finishing technique that creates a neat, rolled border. I-cord adds a professional touch and helps frame the colorwork design beautifully.

Finished Measurements

• After blocking: Approximately 84 inches (213 cm) wide across the top, 27 inches (69 cm) down the spine
• Before blocking: Approximately 62 inches (157 cm) wide, 25 inches (63 cm) down the spine

Materials Required

Yarn: This pattern uses fingering weight yarn in two colors:

• Main color: 800 yards (731 meters / 185 grams) of fingering weight yarn
• Contrast color: 90 yards (82 meters / 20 grams) of fingering weight yarn

The pattern was designed using Fantastic yarn by Hey Sister Yarn Co. in Noir for the main color and Drizzle for the contrast color, though any fingering weight yarn in complementary colors may be substituted.

Skill Level and Techniques

Rated as intermediate difficulty, Lunar Spine is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to explore stranded colorwork. The pattern incorporates several key techniques: garter stitch for the initial section, stranded colorwork for the lunar phase motifs, strategic decreases to shape the triangle, and i-cord finishing. The progression from simple to complex stitching makes this an excellent project for building confidence with colorwork techniques.

Yarn Weight and Gauge Considerations

Fingering weight yarn, also known as 4-ply yarn, is a lightweight option that creates delicate, finely-detailed fabric ideal for displaying intricate colorwork patterns. This weight allows the lunar phase design to be rendered with precision while keeping the finished shawl lightweight and wearable. The yardage requirements reflect the generous finished dimensions, ensuring adequate coverage for shoulder or neck wear.