Sargasso

Sargasso Knit Shawl by Brian Smith Designs

What is Being Made

Sargasso is a downloadable knitting pattern for a triangular shawl designed by Brian Smith Designs. This intermediate-level project creates a generous wrap-style shawl with a wingspan of 166 centimeters and a maximum depth of 114 centimeters after blocking, making it suitable for layering or draping across the shoulders.

Construction Method and Technique

The shawl is constructed using a modular rectangle approach, combining three distinct rectangular sections that are worked sequentially. This technique allows knitters to build the shawl systematically while managing stitch counts and directional changes. The pattern employs strategic decreases and directional shifts to create the final triangular silhouette.

The construction begins with a foundation rectangle worked in stocking stitch, followed by a second rectangle that incorporates slip-slip-knit decreases to shape the piece. The final rectangle is created by picking up and knitting stitches along an existing edge, demonstrating the modular building technique that characterizes this design. This method provides clear structure for intermediate knitters while creating visual interest through the combination of sections.

Stitches and Abbreviations Used

• Stocking Stitch: The primary stitch throughout the pattern, creating a smooth, classic fabric
• Knit (K): Basic knit stitch
• Purl (P): Basic purl stitch
• Slip Slip Knit (ssk): A left-leaning decrease used to shape the shawl sections
• Knit Two Together (k2tog): A right-leaning decrease
• Purl Two Together (p2tog): A purl-side decrease
• Slip Marker (slm): Used to track pattern sections and directional changes

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for Life in the long grass (LITLG) DK Twist yarn in three complementary shades: 2 skeins of Lughnasa, 1 skein of Cactus Moonsoil, and 1 skein of Winterview. The DK weight yarn provides excellent drape while remaining lightweight enough for a comfortable shawl. The color combination creates visual depth and interest across the three rectangular sections.

Additional materials required include a 120-centimeter circular needle in UK size 4.5mm (US size 7), a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, two stitch markers to track pattern sections, a row counter to monitor progress through the rectangular sections, and a blocking kit to achieve the finished measurements. The specified gauge is 24 rows and 16 stitches over 10 centimeters in stocking stitch, which should be verified before beginning the project to ensure proper finished dimensions.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle shaping techniques and modular construction. The combination of basic stitches with strategic decreases and the multi-section approach provides an engaging project that builds confidence in garment construction.