Y Wennol Shawl

Y Wennol Shawl by Lesley Jones

What Is Being Made

The Y Wennol Shawl is a top-down triangular shawl inspired by swallows that nest in the designer's workshop. This knitting project is available in two sizes: a Large version measuring 80 inches wide by 38 inches long, and a Small version measuring 54 inches wide by 26 inches long. The shawl is designed as a beginner-level knitting project, making it accessible to newer knitters while still creating an elegant finished garment.

Techniques Used

This shawl employs the top-down construction method, which allows knitters to try on the garment as it grows and adjust the final size as needed. The design begins with a specialized tab cast on technique, which creates a neat, finished edge at the top of the shawl. This cast-on method involves provisionally casting on 2 stitches, knitting 7 rows, then picking up stitches along the edges to establish the foundation for the triangular shape. The top-down approach combined with the tab cast on creates a professional-looking starting point for the shawl.

Stitches Used

The Y Wennol Shawl incorporates fundamental knitting stitches suitable for a beginner project:

• Knit (k) – the basic knit stitch forming the foundation of the fabric
• Purl (p) – the reverse of the knit stitch, used for texture and pattern variation
• Yarn over (yo) – creates decorative eyelets and lace elements throughout the shawl
• Slip, slip, knit (ssk) – a left-leaning decrease used for shaping
• Knit two together (k2tog) – a right-leaning decrease for shaping the triangular silhouette
• Slip 1, knit 2 together, pass slipped stitch over (s2kp) – a centered double decrease for refined shaping
• Slip 1 (sl1) – used for edge stitches and stitch manipulation

Materials and Specifications

The Y Wennol Shawl is designed to be worked in 4-ply fingering weight yarn. The Large size requires 924 yards (845 meters) of yarn, while the Small size uses 426 yards (390 meters). The pattern specifies 4mm needles, though knitters should select the needle size that achieves the required gauge. The gauge for this project is 5 stitches by 7 rows over 1 inch after blocking, which is typical for fingering weight yarn. The model shown in the pattern was knitted using KnitPicks Palette yarn. Additional materials needed include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and stitch markers to track pattern repeats and the center stitch throughout the construction.

This beginner-friendly shawl pattern combines classic triangular shawl construction with accessible stitch work, making it an ideal project for knitters developing their skills while creating a beautiful, wearable accessory.