Taina's Arrow

Taina's Arrow Triangular Shawl by Eeva Kesäkuu

What Is Being Made

Taina's Arrow is a triangular shawl designed by Eeva Kesäkuu, worked in a distinctive arrow shape that begins from one corner and extends to the long edge on the opposite side. The finished shawl measures approximately 65 cm deep and 210 cm wide after blocking, making it a generous accessory suitable for layering or wrapping. The arrow silhouette creates visual interest and makes this design particularly well-suited for working with stripes of different colors, allowing crafters to experiment with color combinations and yarn variations.

Knitting Techniques and Stitch Work

This shawl is constructed using two primary knitting techniques that work together to create its structure and drape. Garter stitch forms the foundation of the design, providing a textured, reversible fabric that works beautifully in shawls. Complementing the garter stitch are eyelet rows, which add delicate openwork details throughout the piece. The combination of these stitches creates a fabric with both substance and elegance, while the eyelet rows contribute to the shawl's graceful drape.

A notable construction detail involves a double decrease at the center of the shawl, which requires removing and replacing a stitch marker as you work. This technique helps shape the arrow form and maintain proper shaping throughout the project.

Yarn and Materials

Taina's Arrow is designed to work with 4-ply (fingering weight) yarn. The pattern specifies two yarn options used in the original design: Handu Ilun Sinkku (365 meters or 400 yards per 100 grams) and Louhittaren Luola Tuulen Tytär (400 meters or 437 yards per 100 grams). You will need a minimum of 730 meters (800 yards) or 200 grams of yarn to complete the shawl, though the pink model shown was made with just under 200 grams.

For needles, use 3.5 mm (US size 4) needles or adjust the size as needed to achieve a soft, drapey fabric that you enjoy working with. Gauge is not considered crucial for this project, as the shawl's triangular shape accommodates variations. The recommended gauge is 18 stitches and 32 rows per 10 centimeters in garter stitch when blocked. You will also need one stitch marker to track the center decrease point.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for knitters new to shawl construction. The straightforward combination of garter stitch and eyelet rows, along with the forgiving nature of the design, allows newer knitters to successfully complete a beautiful, wearable garment while building their skills.