Peruvian Tones Plano Shawl in Cascade Yarns Ultra Pima Fine - Free

Peruvian Tones Plano Shawl in Cascade Yarns Ultra Pima Fine

What is Being Made

The Peruvian Tones Plano Shawl is a lightweight, rectangular knit wrap designed by Laurie Beardsley. This shawl measures 70 inches long by 15 inches deep, making it an elegant accessory suitable for layering or draping. The finished piece is crafted from Cascade Yarns Ultra Pima Fine in the Periwinkle colorway (#15), a sophisticated neutral tone that complements a variety of wardrobes.

Craft and Skill Level

This is a beginner-friendly knitting project that introduces knitters to fundamental shawl construction techniques. Despite its easy skill level, the pattern teaches valuable shaping methods used in wrap and shawl design, making it an excellent choice for knitters progressing beyond basic scarves and dishcloths.

Materials Used

The shawl requires 2 skeins of Cascade Yarns Ultra Pima Fine in color #15 (Periwinkle). This yarn is 100% Pima cotton, offering a soft, breathable fiber ideal for warm-weather wraps. Each skein contains 100 grams (3.5 ounces) and yields 273 yards (250 meters) of yarn. Knitters will need US 4 (3.5 mm) knitting needles or the size necessary to achieve the specified gauge, along with a yarn needle for weaving in ends.

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern calls for a gauge of 24 stitches by 28 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) in the body pattern, measured after blocking. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished dimensions of 70 inches by 15 inches.

Stitches and Techniques

The Peruvian Tones Plano Shawl employs a range of fundamental knitting stitches and techniques:

• Knit (K) and Purl (P) stitches form the basic fabric structure
• Yarn Over (YO) creates decorative increases that add openness and visual interest to the shawl
• Slip, Knit, Pass Slipped Stitch Over (SKP) provides balanced decreases that shape the edges
• Knit through Back Loop (Ktbl) adds subtle texture and helps define edge stitches
• Knit into Front and Back (KFB) increases stitches for shaping
• Slip Purlwise (Sl PW) creates neat, finished edge stitches
• Long Tail Cast On begins the project with a flexible, elastic foundation
• Bind Off (BO) secures the final row

Pattern Construction

The pattern uses a repeating row sequence that combines right-side and wrong-side rows. Right-side rows incorporate yarn overs for increases, while wrong-side rows use knit-front-and-back increases for shaping. The pattern introduces purl stitches beginning at Row 11, creating a textured body pattern that adds visual depth to the finished shawl. This alternating increase-and-decrease structure creates the characteristic triangular or rectangular shawl shape while maintaining balanced edge definition.

Yarn Characteristics

Cascade Yarns Ultra Pima Fine is a premium cotton yarn known for its softness, durability, and lustrous finish. Pima cotton is longer-staple and stronger than standard cotton, resulting in a yarn that resists pilling and maintains its appearance through repeated wear and washing. The fine weight allows for delicate drape and breathability, making this shawl ideal for spring and summer wear or as a layering piece in cooler seasons.