Strawberry moon

Strawberry Moon Shawl by Mindy Wilkes

Project Overview

Strawberry Moon is an intermediate-level knitted shawl designed by Mindy Wilkes. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a triangular shawl constructed from tip to tip, featuring a garter stitch body combined with an integrated lace edge that is knit as you go. The design showcases decorative scalloped details reminiscent of ripe berries along the lace border, making it both a functional and visually appealing accessory.

Construction Technique

The shawl is built using a tip-to-tip construction method, which means knitting begins at one corner point and progresses outward to create the triangular shape. This approach allows the lace edge to be incorporated directly into the knitting process rather than added afterward, creating a seamless integration between the body and the decorative border.

Stitches and Stitch Work

• Garter Stitch: Forms the primary body of the shawl, created by knitting every row. This fundamental stitch produces a textured, reversible fabric that is durable and lies flat beautifully when blocked.
• Lace Edge: Features scalloped details that echo the appearance of strawberries. The lace is worked as an integral part of the knitting process, eliminating the need for separate finishing steps.
• Abbreviations Used: The pattern employs standard knitting abbreviations including st(s) for stitch(es), pm for place marker, RS for right side, WS for wrong side, rep for repeat, k for knit, kfb for knit front and back, sm for slip marker, and sl for slip.

Materials Required

Yarn: The pattern calls for 380 yards (347 meters) of fingering weight yarn. The sample shown uses Madelinetosh Tosh Sock, which is 100% merino with approximately 395 yards per 100 grams, in the colorway Vermilion. Fingering weight yarn is a fine, delicate yarn weight ideal for creating detailed lace work and intricate stitch patterns.

Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) circular needles measuring 24 inches in length, or the size needed to achieve the specified gauge.

Notions: One stitch marker and a yarn needle for weaving in ends complete the required materials.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 24 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in garter stitch after blocking. While gauge is noted as not crucial for fit since shawls are inherently flexible garments, variations in gauge will affect the finished size and the total yardage required to complete the project. The finished shawl measures 60 inches (152 cm) wide by 12 inches (30.5 cm) deep, creating a generous triangular wrap suitable for layering or draping.

Difficulty Level

Classified as an intermediate project, Strawberry Moon is appropriate for knitters with some experience. The combination of straightforward garter stitch with lace elements requires familiarity with basic knitting techniques and the ability to read and follow lace pattern instructions, but does not demand advanced skills.