Quetzalcoatl Chart

Quetzalcoatl Chart by Nancy Hand

Project Overview

The Quetzalcoatl Chart is a downloadable knitting pattern featuring the iconic feathered serpent from Mexican legend. This intermediate-level design draws inspiration from the Codex Nuttall and celebrates the cultural significance of Quetzalcoatl in Aztec tradition, where the deity was associated with wind, the planet Venus, arts, crafts, and knowledge. The pattern was originally conceived for a seat cushion project measuring approximately 16" x 20" (40 x 50 cm) and has been adapted specifically for knitting applications.

Design Specifications

This is a large-scale chart pattern suitable for ambitious knitting projects. When worked at a standard gauge of 6 stitches and 8 rows per inch (2.5 cm), the completed Quetzalcoatl figure will measure approximately 37.5" (95 cm) in width, making it an excellent choice for substantial garments, blankets, or decorative pieces.

Chart Format and Layout

The pattern includes multiple presentations of the same design to accommodate different working preferences and skill levels. The chart is provided in two formats:

• A single full-page version for knitters who prefer working from one complete image
• A quartered version divided into four separate charts, designed to simplify chart-following during the knitting process

Where the four quartered charts meet at the center, there is a slight overlap to ensure seamless pattern continuity and accurate stitch placement.

Knitting Technique

This pattern utilizes charted knitting, a fundamental technique where a grid represents individual stitches and rows. Knitters follow the chart row by row, translating the visual pattern into knit and purl stitches or color changes. The intermediate difficulty level indicates that knitters should be comfortable reading charts and maintaining consistent gauge throughout a large project.

Materials Required

While specific yarn weight and needle size recommendations are not detailed in the pattern instructions provided, the gauge specification of 6 stitches and 8 rows per inch (2.5 cm) will guide yarn and needle selection. Knitters should choose yarn and needles that achieve this gauge to ensure the design reaches its intended dimensions.

Designer Information

This pattern is the original work of Nancy Hand, an independent designer. The design copyright dates to 2012 and represents a thoughtful translation of historical Aztec imagery into a contemporary knitting project.