Striking a Balance: Classic Seed Stitch Shawl

Knit up this simple shawl to showcase a few skeins of worsted weight wool. Worked from the point, this pattern uses a simple yarn over increase at the beginning of each row. It’s sure to become a warm staple for your winter wardrobe.

Classic Seed Stitch Shawl knit in handspun wool.

The Inspiration

A versatile shawl, worn wrapped around the shoulders or with the point in front, is a handy knit to have. Plus, they can be so fun to work up! Who doesn’t love watching their knitting grow (intentionally) row by row?

But finding patterns that showcase handspun yarn can be difficult. This pattern strikes a balance between interesting texture and simplicity; Instead of letting a complicated pattern repeat obscure the natural quirkiness of the the handspun yarn, it’s natural texture, twists, and puffs take center stage.

Large enough to wear as a shawl or scarf.

Simple seed stitch adds interesting texture without obscuring the prettiness of the yarn itself.

Even subtle colorways aren’t distracted by the pattern.

Pattern:

Finished Size: 44 inches wide across, 22 inches in length from cast on edge to top.

Yarn: Approx. 335 yards of worsted weight wool. This pattern would also work up nice with handspun mohair.

Needles & Notions:

• US 10.5 (6.5mm) 24″/60cm circular needle, or size to obtain gauge;
• Blunt darning needle;
• Blocking pins;
• Crochet hook.

Gauge:

Approx. 14 stitches and 23 rows = 4 inches in seed stitch, after blocking.

Glossary:

K = knit; P = purl; yo = yarn over.

Knit the Shawl:

To cast on, create a single slip knot. At the start of each row, you will yarn over once before knitting or purling the first stitch. This 1 stitch increase will be repeated for every row until the cast off edge.

Row 1: YO, K1

Row 2: YO *K1, P1 repeat from * to end of row.

Row 3: YO *P1, K1 repeat from * to end of row.

Row 4: YO *P1, K1 repeat from * to end of row.

Row 5: YO *K1, P1 repeat from * to end of row.

Repeat rows 2-5 of pattern being sure to knit the purl stitches and purl the knit stitches. Work until piece measures 22 inches from cast on edge or until desired length. Cast off loosely. Weave in ends and block.

Add the Fringe:

Since the joy of knitting your own stuff is customization, feel free to leave the fringe off or add in more!

For my shawl, I added 12 inches of fringe doubled over to make each clump 6 inches in length. Add fringe with a crochet hook every other row through the yarn over loops. In total I added 31 additions per side or 62 clumps total. Feel free to double up or add to each row. I personally love having a bit of space in between each piece so it will hang nicely.

If you have any suggestions or need clarification, I’d love to hear from you. If you make this shawl, share your project on Instagram with #kindredyarnco. If you haven’t already, follow me on Instagram @kindredyarnco. I can’t wait to see your projects!

Until next week, knit forever.