Cascade Yarns W Solar Wave Shawl Wrap Knitting Pattern

Cascade Yarns W Solar Wave Shawl

What Is Being Made

The Solar Wave Shawl is a triangular knitted wrap designed by Shannon Dunbabin. This intermediate-level shawl features elegant dimensions of 32 inches across the top width and 17 inches in height, expanding to 65 inches at the bottom width, making it a versatile accessory suitable for layering or wearing as a traditional shawlette.

Knitting Techniques Used

This shawl employs several fundamental knitting techniques to achieve its distinctive wave-like construction. The pattern uses yarn overs combined with knit two together decreases to create lacy openwork sections that form the characteristic solar wave motif. The design incorporates a top-down triangular construction, where the shawl begins with a small cast-on and expands through strategic increases and decreases. Stitch markers are used to define different sections and maintain pattern accuracy throughout the knitting process.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Solar Wave Shawl utilizes a combination of essential stitches to create its textured appearance. Garter stitch forms the foundation of the main body, providing a classic, reversible texture. The pattern incorporates yarn overs (YO) paired with knit two together (K2tog) decreases in repeating sequences to form the lacy wave edging. These lace elements are strategically placed along the edges while the center maintains solid garter stitch fabric. The pattern uses slip stitch techniques at row beginnings for a finished edge appearance.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This project requires Cascade Yarns 220 Superwash Wave yarn, a 100% superwash wool option that provides durability and easy care. The yarn is available in color #108 (Solar), which is used throughout the shawl. Three skeins are needed to complete the project, with each skein containing 3.5 ounces and 220 yards of yardage. The recommended gauge is 16 stitches by 25 rows in garter stitch, and the pattern calls for US 7 circular knitting needles, which accommodate the expanding stitch count as the shawl grows. Additional supplies include stitch markers for pattern tracking and a yarn needle for finishing.

Pattern Structure and Construction

The Solar Wave Shawl follows a three-section construction method. The edging section establishes the foundation with 22 cast-on stitches and creates the initial wave pattern through a series of setup rows that introduce yarn overs and decreases. The increase section is then worked repeatedly nine times, with each repeat adding 5 stitches to expand the shawl's width while maintaining the wave pattern along the edge. Finally, the center section continues the established stitch patterns without additional increases, creating the main body of the wrap. This methodical approach ensures consistent patterning and controlled shaping throughout the knitting process.