Torroja

Torroja Shawl by Mathieu Arnold

What is Being Made

The Torroja shawl is a triangle-shaped shawl designed by Mathieu Arnold, named after Arnau de Torroja, a knight of the Crown of Aragon and ninth Grand Master of the Knights Templar (1181–1184). This intermediate-level knitting project measures 170 cm × 90 cm (67″ × 35″) and combines decorative cable work with textural slipped stitches, finished with an i-cord border.

Techniques Used

The Torroja shawl employs several intermediate knitting techniques to create visual interest and structure. Cable stitches form the primary decorative pattern throughout the shawl, requiring a cable needle to cross stitches and create twisted, rope-like textures. Slipped stitches are used strategically to add texture and definition without increasing stitch count. The shawl is constructed as a triangle, a classic shawl shape that allows for elegant draping. An i-cord border surrounds the entire perimeter, providing a neat, finished edge that frames the main pattern work.

Stitches Used

• Cable stitches (requiring cable needle manipulation)
• Slipped stitches (for textural detail)
• Garter stitch (used as the gauge reference and likely as background or foundation)
• I-cord (for the border finish)

Materials and Yarn Requirements

This pattern uses fingering-weight yarn (4-ply), a fine yarn suitable for creating detailed stitch definition in cable and slipped-stitch work. The project requires 750 meters (825 yards) of main color yarn and 320 meters (350 yards) of contrasting color yarn, allowing for a two-color design that enhances pattern visibility. The recommended yarn is La Fée Fil single merino, with the main color being "La chambre de Van G." (gray with speckles) and a separate contrasting color component.

Knitting is worked on US 5 / 3.5 mm needles (or the size needed to obtain proper gauge). Additional notions include a cable needle for executing cable stitches and a darning needle for finishing and weaving in ends.

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 25 stitches by 49 rows over 10 cm (4 inches) in garter stitch. Achieving this gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished dimensions and ensuring that the cable and slipped-stitch patterns display at their intended scale.

Pattern Notes

The designer emphasizes reading all instructions and the abbreviations and techniques section before casting on, indicating that this pattern contains specialized techniques or terminology that require careful review. The downloadable PDF format provides detailed written instructions for completing this intermediate shawl project.