Lykia

Lykia Shawlette by Emma Jaeger

What Is Being Made

The Lykia Shawlette is an advanced-level knitted shawl design created by independent designer Emma Jaeger. This project produces a finished shawlette suitable for experienced knitters seeking a sophisticated accessory piece. The pattern offers flexibility through two construction options: a solid colorway version or a striped variation, allowing crafters to customize their finished garment based on yarn availability and personal preference.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This shawlette employs advanced knitting techniques appropriate for experienced fiber artists. The pattern utilizes circular needle construction, a hallmark of modern shawl design that allows for seamless, continuous knitting. The design incorporates stitch markers throughout the project to assist with pattern tracking and shaping. Crafters will work with both knit and purl stitches to create textured fabric, and the pattern requires careful attention to gauge and tension to achieve the intended finished dimensions and drape.

The construction method involves working from a cast-on edge and building the shawlette through increases and strategic stitch placement. Blocking is an essential finishing step for this project, helping to set the stitches and enhance the shawlette's final shape and appearance.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch – the primary stitch structure, created by alternating knit and purl rows to produce a smooth, classic fabric
• Knit and purl stitches – foundational techniques combined to build the overall pattern
• Increases – shaping techniques to expand the shawlette as the project progresses

Materials and Yarn Specifications

For the solid version: One skein of Skein BFL Sock in the colorway Buttercup, or approximately 240 yards (220 meters) of fingering weight yarn. BFL refers to Blue-Faced Leicester, a premium wool fiber known for its softness and sheen.

For the striped version: One skein of Rock Creek Twisterino in the colorway The Snow Queen (main color) and one skein of Skein BFL Sock in the colorway Buttercup (contrast color), or approximately 160 yards (147 meters) of main color and 80 yards (74 meters) of contrast color in fingering weight yarn.

The pattern specifies 4-ply yarn weight (fingering weight), a fine gauge that creates delicate, detailed fabric. This yarn weight is ideal for shawlettes, producing elegant drape and intricate stitch definition.

Needles and Tools

• One US size 5 (3.75 mm) circular needle, 24 inches (61 centimeters) in length
• One US size 6 (4.0 mm) circular needle, 24 inches (61 centimeters) in length
• Twelve stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping
• A tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends
• Blocking materials to set and shape the finished shawlette

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 36 rows to 4 inches (10 centimeters) in stockinette stitch using the smaller US size 5 (3.75 mm) needle. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for advanced projects like this shawlette, as it directly affects the finished dimensions and the overall success of the garment. Knitters are advised to always use a needle size that produces the listed gauge, as the recommendations provided are starting points that may require adjustment based on individual tension and yarn characteristics.