Rockpool

Rockpool Shawl by Ruth Garcia-Alcantud

What Is Being Made

Rockpool is a downloadable knitting pattern for an elegant triangular shawl designed by Ruth Garcia-Alcantud. This intermediate-level project offers two finished size options: a smaller version measuring 26 inches tall by 52 inches wide (66 cm by 132 cm), and a larger version measuring 40 inches tall by 80 inches wide (101 cm by 202 cm). The shawl design features a sophisticated stitch pattern inspired by natural textures, making it a versatile accessory suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Knitting Techniques Used

Rockpool employs several classic knitting techniques to create visual interest and texture. The pattern incorporates cable stitches, which are created using a cable needle to cross stitches over one another, producing the characteristic twisted rope-like appearance. The design features both right-leaning and left-leaning cable crosses, indicated in the pattern as 1/2RC (right cable) and 1/2LC (left cable). Additionally, the shawl uses yarn overs to create decorative eyelet details and lace elements that contribute to the shawl's elegant drape. Decreases such as k2tog (knit two together) and ssk (slip, slip, knit) are used to shape the triangular silhouette and control stitch count as the pattern progresses.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch pattern featured in Rockpool is the Little Waves chart, which combines knit and purl stitches to create a textured, undulating surface reminiscent of water ripples. This chart-based pattern alternates between knit stitches on the right side and purl stitches on the wrong side, creating raised texture. The pattern also incorporates:

• Knit stitches (K) – the fundamental stitch forming the base fabric
• Purl stitches (P) – reverse knit stitches that add textural contrast
• Yarn overs (YO) – deliberate loops that create lace-like openings
• Decreases – including k2tog, ssk, p2tog, and p2togtbl (purl two together through back loop) to shape the shawl
• Cable crosses – 1/2RC and 1/2LC maneuvers that twist stitches for dimensional texture

Materials: Yarn and Needles

Rockpool is designed to be knitted with Anzula Milky Way yarn, a luxurious blend comprising 80% milk protein and 20% superwash Merino. This yarn weight classification falls within the 3-ply to 4-ply range, offering a delicate yet durable construction. Each 100-gram skein contains 500 yards (457 meters) of yarn. The pattern requires 1 skein for the smaller size and 2 skeins for the larger size. The shade shown in the pattern sample is slate, a sophisticated neutral tone. Knitting is worked on US size 3 (3.25 mm) circular needles, which accommodate the shawl's expanding stitch count as the triangular shape develops. The blocked gauge is 20 stitches over 4 inches (10 cm) in the Little Waves chart pattern, ensuring proper finished dimensions.

Additional Notions and Supplies

Beyond yarn and needles, the Rockpool pattern requires several standard knitting notions: 2 stitch markers to track pattern repeats and shaping points, a cable needle for executing the cable crosses, scissors for finishing, and a tapestry needle for weaving in ends. Knitters may optionally use thread or lifeline supplies to secure rows during knitting, providing a safety measure for recovering from potential mistakes without unraveling the entire project.