Vixen shawl

Vixen Shawl by Tori Gurbisz

What is Being Made

Vixen is a reversible raglan shawl designed by Tori Gurbisz and presented by Lachesis and Co. This shawl is knit from the center of the neck down, creating a distinctive shape that sits securely on the shoulders without slipping. Unlike traditional triangular shawls, Vixen offers an interesting alternative silhouette that provides both style and functionality for everyday wear.

Design Features and Construction

The shawl features a reversible construction with alternating garter stitch and eyelet sections throughout the design. The raglan shaping creates a comfortable fit at the neckline while the expanding body provides generous coverage. The reversible nature of the pattern means both sides of the finished shawl are attractive and wearable, offering versatility in styling options.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Top-down construction beginning from the center of the neck
• Raglan shaping for proper shoulder fit
• Reversible pattern design
• Provisional cast on method (optional crochet hook technique)
• Gauge adjustment techniques for customizing finished size

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

• Garter stitch - the primary textured stitch creating reversible fabric
• Eyelet sections - decorative openwork areas alternating with garter stitch
• K2tog (knit 2 together) - decrease stitch for shaping
• Stitch marker placement for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points

Materials and Specifications

Vixen is designed to be worked in fingering weight yarn. The pattern recommends Knit Picks Stroll Tonal Sock Yarn, which is composed of 75% Superwash Merino Wool and 25% Nylon, providing durability and easy care. One skein containing 462 yards per 100 grams is sufficient for this project. The yarn shown in the example is Deep Waters, a tonal colorway.

Knitting needles required are US 6 / 4mm circular needles in 32-inch length to accommodate the expanding stitches as the shawl grows. Additional supplies include a yarn needle for weaving in ends, stitch markers for tracking pattern sections, waste yarn for the provisional cast on, and optionally a crochet hook to assist with the provisional cast on method.

Gauge Information

The recommended gauge is 13 stitches and 22 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in garter stitch when blocked. While gauge is not considered crucial for this particular project, significant variations from the recommended gauge will affect the finished shawl size. Knitters should adjust needle size up or down as needed to achieve proper gauge and desired finished dimensions.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as Advanced Beginner to Intermediate, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond basic techniques. The reversible construction, alternating stitch patterns, and raglan shaping require solid foundational skills and the ability to follow multi-section pattern instructions.