Peridot Shawl in Berroco Gimlet - Downloadable PDF

Peridot Shawl in Berroco Gimlet

Project Overview

The Peridot Shawl is an intermediate-level knitting project designed by Alison Green. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a beautifully proportioned triangular shawl measuring approximately 44 inches (112 cm) wide across the top and 13 inches (33 cm) long down the center after blocking. The shawl is an ideal project for knitters seeking to expand their skills beyond basic techniques while creating a versatile, wearable accessory.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a classic triangular shawl, a popular silhouette in knitting that drapes elegantly around the shoulders. The generous finished width of 44 inches provides excellent coverage, while the 13-inch depth creates a balanced proportion that works well for various body types and styling preferences. The shawl's triangular shape is achieved through strategic increases worked throughout the knitting process.

Yarn and Materials

Yarn: Berroco Gimlet in the colorway #10733 Margarita. The pattern calls for 3 balls of yarn, with each ball weighing 50 grams. Berroco Gimlet is classified as a chunky-weight yarn, making this project work up relatively quickly despite the finished dimensions.

Needles and Notions: The pattern requires a 40-inch (100 cm) circular needle in size 10 (6 mm), or whatever size is needed to obtain the correct gauge. Additional notions include stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends upon completion.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Peridot Shawl is worked using a Pattern Stitch, which creates the visual interest and texture of the finished piece. The pattern stitch is worked consistently throughout the shawl construction. Stitch markers play an important role in this project, helping knitters maintain accuracy as they work through repeating pattern sections and shaping increases.

The triangular shaping is accomplished through strategic increases positioned within the pattern stitch. This intermediate-level technique requires knitters to understand how to integrate increases into a stitch pattern while maintaining pattern integrity and achieving balanced, symmetrical shaping.

Gauge and Blocking

Achieving the correct gauge is essential for this project. The pattern specifies a gauge of 14 stitches and 21 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when measured in the Pattern Stitch. Importantly, this gauge measurement is taken after blocking, which means the shawl must be wet-blocked to reach its finished measurements of 44 inches wide by 13 inches long. Blocking opens up the stitches, allows the yarn to relax, and ensures the shawl reaches its intended dimensions and drape.

Skill Level

Classified as an intermediate project, the Peridot Shawl is suitable for knitters who have mastered basic stitches and are comfortable reading pattern instructions with some complexity. The combination of working a stitch pattern while simultaneously shaping the garment through increases makes this an excellent next step for advancing knitters.