New Earth

New Earth Shawl by Lisa Charbonneau

What is Being Made

New Earth is a knitted shawl pattern designed by Lisa Charbonneau. This downloadable PDF pattern offers two finished size options: a Small shawl measuring 57" × 22" (145 cm × 56 cm) and a Large shawl measuring 78" × 29" (198 cm × 74 cm). The shawl is worked in a classic triangular or rectangular silhouette, making it a versatile accessory suitable for various occasions and styling preferences.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to create its finished design. The pattern utilizes stocking stitch as the primary stitch base, which provides a smooth, classic fabric foundation. The shawl incorporates lace work throughout, with the pattern featuring lace repeats that are charted for easy following. Knitters are encouraged to place stitch markers between the lace repeats within the charts to help maintain pattern accuracy, though the pattern specifies a minimum of 4 stitch markers for basic construction.

Special attention is given to finishing techniques in this pattern. The designer recommends knitting the first 2 and last 2 stitches of every row slightly loosely to ensure a nice stretchy top edge. Additionally, the pattern emphasizes the importance of using a very stretchy bind off method, noting that the bind off may appear loose before blocking but will set properly during the blocking process.

Stitches Used

• Stocking stitch - the primary fabric stitch creating a smooth, classic texture
• Lace stitches - charted lace repeats throughout the pattern for decorative openwork
• Stretchy bind off - a specialized finishing technique for flexibility at the top edge

Materials and Gauge

The New Earth shawl is designed for fingering weight yarn, which is a 4-ply yarn weight. Yardage requirements vary by size: the Small shawl requires 400 yards (365 meters), while the Large shawl requires 700 yards (640 meters). The pattern samples showcase two different yarn choices: the Small sample was knitted in Tosh Merino Light in the Celadon colorway, and the Large sample was created using Lolo Did It Dreamy in Aviendha.

The pattern specifies a gauge of 17 stitches and 32 rows over 10 cm (4 inches) in stocking stitch after blocking. This gauge is achieved using 3.5mm (US 4) circular knitting needles in a 32-inch length. Additional materials needed include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats.

Skill Level and Pattern Notes

Rated as an intermediatedifficulty project, the New Earth shawl is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle lace work and charted patterns. The pattern includes helpful notes for successful completion, particularly regarding marker placement for lace repeats and techniques for achieving a professional-looking stretchy edge. Blocking is an essential finishing step for this pattern, as it allows the lace work to open up and the bind off to settle into its final appearance.