Nikini Shawl Wrap Knitting Pattern

Nikini Shawl in Berroco Aerial

What is Being Made

The Nikini Shawl is a triangular wrap designed by Åsa Buchta that measures approximately 48 inches across the top edge by 24 inches down the center. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a versatile shawl suitable for layering or wearing as a lightweight wrap, constructed using a top-down construction method that begins with a small garter tab and expands through strategic increases.

Construction and Design Technique

The Nikini Shawl employs a top-down construction approach, beginning with a garter tab cast-on. The shawl is worked from the top edge downward, with increases occurring at the sides and along a center lace panel. This construction method allows knitters to try on the piece as it grows and adjust the final length as desired. Two strands of yarn are held together throughout the entire project, which adds dimension and creates a more substantial fabric than working with a single strand.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The Nikini Shawl incorporates several fundamental knitting stitches and techniques appropriate for intermediate-level knitters. The pattern uses stockinette stitch as the primary fabric base, combined with garter stitch for the edge treatments and initial tab. Lace elements are created using yarn overs to form an open, decorative center panel. Increases are worked using M1L (make one left) and M1R (make one right) techniques at the side edges, while yarn overs create both shaping and lace detail along the center panel. Stitch markers are used to denote pattern sections and maintain shaping consistency throughout the project.

Yarn and Materials

The Nikini Shawl is designed specifically for Berroco Aerial yarn in the colorway #3438 Emerald. The pattern requires three 25-gram balls of this yarn. Berroco Aerial is a lightweight, airy yarn that works beautifully when held with two strands together, creating a fabric with excellent drape suitable for shawl construction.

The project requires a 32-inch circular needle in size 6 (4 mm), or the size needed to obtain proper gauge. A longer circular needle may be preferred as the shawl expands during construction. Stitch markers are essential notions for tracking pattern repeats and increase points throughout the knitting process.

Gauge and Finishing

The specified gauge for the Nikini Shawl is 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch when two strands of Berroco Aerial are held together. This gauge is measured after blocking, making it essential to block the finished shawl to achieve the intended finished measurements. Checking gauge before beginning the project is recommended to ensure accurate sizing and proper yarn yardage usage.