Berroco Thayer Wrap Knitting Pattern

Berroco Thayer Lace Knit Shawl

What is Being Made

The Berroco Thayer is an elegant lace knit shawl designed by Amy Christoffers, sized as a generous scarf or wrap. With finished measurements of approximately 18 inches across by 74 inches long, this piece is perfect for draping over shoulders or wearing as an extended neck scarf. The design combines delicate lace patterning with practical garter stitch edging for a refined, wearable accessory.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to create its sophisticated appearance:

• Lace knitting — The central design features a charted lace pattern that creates openwork throughout the piece
• Seamless construction — The shawl is worked as one continuous piece with no seaming required
• Flat knitting — The piece is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, making it accessible for knitters comfortable with traditional back-and-forth knitting
• Chart reading — Knitters follow a detailed chart to execute the lace pattern repeats accurately
• Stitch markers — Markers are placed to delineate the lace chart section from the edge stitches, helping maintain pattern accuracy

Stitches Used

The Thayer employs a straightforward but effective stitch combination:

• Garter stitch — Used for the first and last 5 stitches on each row to create a stable, decorative border. The piece begins and ends with 10 rows of garter stitch (5 garter ridges), providing a finished edge
• Charted lace pattern — The center 81 stitches are worked according to a provided chart, repeated 9 times vertically to achieve the full length

Materials and Specifications

This pattern calls for specific materials to achieve the intended drape and finished gauge:

• Yarn: 5 hanks of Berroco Modern Cotton (100 grams each) in colorway #1608 Gadwall — a 100% cotton yarn that provides excellent stitch definition for lace work
• Needles: Straight knitting needles, size 7 (4.50 mm), or the size needed to obtain proper gauge
• Notions: 2 stitch markers to track pattern sections
• Gauge: 20 stitches and 26 rows equal 4 inches in the charted pattern — checking gauge before beginning is essential for achieving the correct finished dimensions

Pattern Overview

The Thayer begins with a cast-on of 91 stitches and 10 foundation rows of garter stitch. The lace chart is then established with 5-stitch garter borders on each side, protecting the edges while the charted lace pattern develops in the center. The pattern is repeated 9 times, creating a piece that measures approximately 73 inches before the final 10-row garter stitch bind-off. The use of cotton yarn ensures the lace pattern remains crisp and clear, while the garter stitch borders provide a professional, finished appearance.