Zed Shawl

Zed Shawlette by Shannon Squire

What is Being Made

The Zed Shawlette is a triangular shawl designed by Shannon Squire, offering a versatile accessory that works as either a full shawl or a smaller shawlette. The finished piece measures 54 inches long from tip to tip with a center depth of 20 inches after blocking, making it an elegant layering piece suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Skill Level and Difficulty

This pattern is classified as advanced beginner, making it an excellent choice for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to explore more complex stitch work. The pattern introduces lace knitting and increasing techniques, providing a natural progression in skill development while remaining accessible to those new to decorative stitch patterns.

Techniques Used

The Zed Shawlette employs several fundamental knitting techniques that build foundational skills:

• Lace knitting — creates openwork sections that add visual interest and reduce overall weight
• Increasing techniques — strategically placed increases shape the triangular silhouette and expand the fabric
• Stockinette stitch — forms the primary fabric base, providing a smooth, classic appearance
• Blocking — essential finishing step that sets the gauge and opens up lace patterns for optimal drape and definition

Stitches and Abbreviations

The pattern utilizes standard knitting abbreviations and stitch techniques including:

• k (knit) — fundamental stitch creating the base fabric
• p (purl) — reverse stitch used in combination with knit stitches
• k2tog (knit two stitches together) — right-leaning decrease
• ssk (slip/slip/knit) — left-leaning decrease for balanced shaping
• ktbl (knit through the back loop) — twisted stitch variation
• pm (place marker) and sm (slip marker) — techniques for tracking pattern repeats and shaping points

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: Approximately 280 yards of worsted-weight yarn. The original design features Schoppel Wolle Gradient in colorway 2135 Autumns, though any worsted-weight yarn of similar yardage and fiber content will work effectively.

Needles: US 9 (5.5mm) circular needle measuring 24 inches or longer, or the size needed to achieve proper gauge. Circular needles accommodate the increasing stitches as the shawl expands.

Notions: Stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats and shaping, plus a tapestry needle for weaving in ends and blocking.

Gauge: 18 stitches equals 4 inches (10 centimeters) in stockinette stitch, measured after blocking. While gauge is noted as not crucial for this particular design, achieving consistent tension ensures the finished dimensions match the intended 54-inch length and 20-inch depth.

Design Notes

The Zed Shawlette pattern is designed for one size that fits most, with finished measurements provided after blocking. The combination of worsted-weight yarn and a 24-inch or longer circular needle creates a manageable project that produces a substantial, wearable accessory. The advanced beginner skill level reflects the introduction of lace elements and strategic increasing without requiring complex color work or intricate stitch patterns, making it an ideal next step for knitters progressing beyond basic garment construction.