Quayside Shawl

Quayside Shawl by Chimney Sweep Designs

What is Being Made

The Quayside Shawl is a cosy triangular wrap designed for cooler weather. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a generous shawl with a finished wingspan of 60 inches (152 cm) and a depth of 30 inches (77 cm), making it an ideal accessory for layering and warmth during transitional seasons.

Construction Method

This shawl uses a triangular construction technique, which is a popular method for creating large, elegant wraps from a small cast-on. The pattern begins with just 3 stitches and increases progressively through strategic yarn overs placed on either side of a centre stitch, marked with stitch markers. This geometric approach allows the shawl to grow symmetrically into its final triangular shape.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

• Stockinette stitch forms the primary fabric base, creating a smooth, classic knit surface
• Garter stitch ridges provide decorative texture and visual interest throughout the design
• Yarn overs (yo) are used as the primary increase method, creating small decorative holes that contribute to the shawl's elegant appearance
• Picot cast off finishes the edges with a scalloped detail, adding a delicate, finished aesthetic to the perimeter

Yarn and Materials

The Quayside Shawl requires 720 metres (786 yards) of DK weight yarn. The sample was knitted using Stylecraft Alpaca DK, though this yarn is now discontinued. For substitutions, Chimney Sweep Designs recommends Stylecraft Alpaca Tweed DK or Rowan Alpaca Classic, both of which provide similar characteristics and yardage requirements.

To complete this project, you will need a 4mm circular needle measuring 100 cm or longer to accommodate the increasing stitch count, 2 stitch markers to track pattern increases, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends.

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 23 stitches by 32 rows over 10 centimetres (4 inches) in stockinette stitch. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for reaching the finished wingspan of 60 inches (152 cm) and depth of 30 inches (77 cm).

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for knitters new to shawl construction. While the triangular increase method requires attention to stitch marker placement and yarn over positioning, the fundamental stitches—knit, yarn over, and slip stitch—are foundational techniques suitable for developing knitters.