Classic Elite Yarns Zest Wrap Knitting Pattern

Classic Elite Yarns Zest: Diagonal Scarf and Triangular Shawl

What Is Being Made

Zest is a versatile knitted accessory design available in three distinct versions. Versions 1 and 2 create diagonal scarves with ruffled edges, while Version 3 produces a triangular shawl. Originally published in Fall 2011 in Panache, a printed collection of shawl, scarf, and wrap designs by Classic Elite Yarns, this pattern offers flexibility for knitters seeking elegant, textured pieces suitable for various occasions and preferences.

Finished Measurements

• Version 1: 4 inches wide by 72 inches long, blocked
• Version 2: 8 inches wide by 72 inches long, blocked
• Version 3: 37 inches wide at top by 17 inches deep at center point, after blocking

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level pattern employs seamless knitting worked flat, making it accessible to knitters with foundational skills. The design uses a strategic three-section construction method that creates the distinctive diagonal and ruffled appearance. The pattern begins with an increase section where stitches are added progressively, transitions into a work-even section that establishes the main body length, and concludes with a decrease section that tapers the piece to completion. The ruffled detail is created by picking up stitches along the edge and doubling them through strategic increases, adding visual interest and texture to the finished accessory.

Stitches Used

• Garter Stitch: The foundation stitch throughout the main body, created by knitting every row to produce horizontal ridges
• Knit-Front-and-Back (K1-f/b): Used in the increase section to add one stitch per row, creating the diagonal shaping
• Knit Two Together (K2tog): Applied in the work-even section to maintain stitch count while creating shaping
• Slip, Slip, Knit (ssk): Employed in the decrease section to reduce stitches symmetrically as the piece tapers
• Pick Up and Knit: Used to create the ruffled edging by picking up stitches along the finished edge

Yarn and Materials

The pattern provides three yarn options, each from Classic Elite Yarns, allowing knitters to choose based on desired drape, color preference, and fiber characteristics.

Version 1 (Ruffled Scarf): MountainTop Vail by Classic Elite, a blend of 70% baby alpaca and 30% bamboo. This yarn is available in 50-gram skeins with approximately 236 yards per skein. Version 1 requires 3 hanks in colorway 6436 Sand. The alpaca-bamboo combination provides softness and subtle sheen, while the bamboo component adds breathability.

Version 2 (Ruffled Scarf): Alpaca Sox by Classic Elite, composed of 60% alpaca, 20% merino, and 20% nylon. This yarn comes in 100-gram skeins with approximately 450 yards per skein. Version 2 requires 2 hanks in colorway 1842 Tango Red. The nylon content provides durability and elasticity, while the merino adds warmth and resilience to the alpaca base.

Version 3 (Triangular Shawl): Silky Alpaca Lace by Classic Elite, a luxurious blend of 70% alpaca and 30% silk. This yarn is available in 50-gram skeins with approximately 440 yards per skein. Version 3 uses two colors: 1 ball of 2466 Midnight Forest (Color A) and 1 ball of 2458 Deep Amethyst (Color B). The silk content creates exceptional drape and luminosity, making this version ideal for special occasions.

Needles: Version 1 requires US size 3 (3.25 mm) knitting needles or the size necessary to obtain the specified gauge. The pattern is worked flat on straight or circular needles, with the flat construction allowing for easy manipulation of the increasing and decreasing sections.

Skill Level and Designer

Zest is rated as an intermediate-level pattern, designed by Susan Mills. This classification indicates that knitters should be comfortable with basic stitches and techniques, including increases, decreases, and picking