Palazzetto

Palazzetto Shawl by Sabrina Schumacher

What is Being Made

Palazzetto is a triangular shawl inspired by Luigi Nervi's Palazzetto dello Sport in Milano. The design captures the architectural essence of the building's distinctive concrete ribbed roof structure through knitted texture and shaping. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a wearable piece of art that translates the geometric beauty of modernist architecture into fiber form.

Design and Construction Technique

The shawl is knitted from the center outward, beginning with a small number of stitches and expanding progressively toward the outer edges. This center-out construction method allows the design to grow organically, mirroring how the concrete ribs of the Palazzetto expand and spread across the roof structure. A horizontal line knitted sideways divides the main body of the shawl from its border, creating visual distinction between the two sections.

The pattern can be customized and enlarged by knitting additional segments. For each additional segment worked, casters on one more stitch, allowing knitters to adjust the final size according to their preferences and yarn availability.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The primary stitch used throughout the shawl is Stockinette stitch, which provides a smooth, classic foundation. The architectural detail and visual interest come from twisted stitches, which are strategically placed to draw and define the supporting structure of the Palazzetto. These twisted stitches create a fine net pattern that becomes increasingly visible and prominent as the shawl expands toward the outside edges, echoing the expanding rib pattern of the building's roof.

Yarn and Materials

Palazzetto is designed for DK weight yarn, a versatile medium weight that allows for excellent stitch definition while remaining accessible for intermediate-level knitters. The pattern requires a tapestry needle for finishing and weaving in ends. Specific yardage requirements may vary based on individual gauge, though the pattern notes that correct gauge is not critical for this project—however, checking gauge is recommended to ensure accurate final measurements and to calculate precise yardage needs if you plan to knit additional segments.

Skill Level and Gauge

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience who are comfortable working with increases, twisted stitches, and following pattern instructions. The finished radius measures 59.5 cm (23 inches) for the standard one-size version.

Gauge: 18 stitches and 27 rows equal 4 inches (10 cm) in Stockinette stitch. While gauge is noted as not critical for this project, checking your personal gauge before beginning is recommended to ensure your finished shawl meets the intended dimensions and to accurately calculate yardage if you choose to enlarge the design with additional segments.