Malabrigo Gapstow Scarf Knitting Pattern

Malabrigo Gapstow Eyelet-Border Shawl

What Is Being Made

The Malabrigo Gapstow is an intermediate-level eyelet-border shawl designed by Lori Steinberg. This is a worked-flat knit garment that measures 11 inches wide at its widest point (including edging) and 46½ inches in length, making it a versatile accessory suitable for layering or draping.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs sophisticated knitting techniques that add visual interest and structural complexity to the finished piece. The primary construction method uses short-row shaping, a technique that creates depth and dimension without increasing stitch count. The pattern features wrap and turn (w&t) short-row techniques, which involve slipping stitches purlwise, moving yarn between needles, and later working wrapped stitches together with their corresponding stitches to hide or close the wraps. This creates smooth transitions and prevents holes in the fabric.

The design incorporates lace elements through eyelet borders, adding delicate openwork details to the shawl. Stripe patterning is achieved through color changes, with the pattern worked in a coordinated sequence using three distinct yarn colors. The shawl is worked flat on straight needles rather than in the round, allowing for controlled shaping and edge finishing.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette stitch (St st) — the primary fabric stitch, creating smooth columns of knit and purl
• Garter stitch — worked in ridges throughout the pattern for textural contrast and structural support
• Slip stitch — used purlwise during short-row wrapping techniques
• Eyelet stitches — creating the decorative openwork border characteristic of the design

Materials

The Malabrigo Gapstow is worked using Malabrigo Arroyo yarn, a superwash merino wool available in 3½-ounce hanks with approximately 335 yards per 100 grams. The pattern requires three hanks total: one each in colorway #54 Escoria (A), #58 Borraja (B), and #57 English Rose (C).

Needles and tools include one pair of size 6 (4mm) straight needles for the main shawl construction, a size 6 (4mm) circular needle measuring 40 inches long for working larger sections, and a size G-6 (4mm) crochet hook for finishing details. Stitch markers are essential notions for tracking the pattern's short-row sequences and color changes.

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern calls for a gauge of 22 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch using size 6 needles, measured after blocking. Achieving proper gauge is critical for obtaining the correct finished dimensions and ensuring the shawl drapes appropriately.