Prairie Rose Shawl Wrap Knitting Pattern

Prairie Rose Shawl in Berroco Bozzolo

What Is Being Made

The Prairie Rose Shawl is a triangular wrap designed by Åsa Buchta, measuring approximately 56 inches across the top edge by 28 inches down the center. This is a top-down knit shawl that begins at the center of the top edge and works downward, creating a classic crescent or triangular silhouette ideal for draping over the shoulders or wearing as a generous wrap.

Craft and Construction Method

This is a knitting project worked on circular needles. The shawl construction begins with a garter tab, a traditional technique that creates a neat, finished edge at the top. The garter tab is cast on with just 3 stitches, worked flat for 6 rows, then stitches are picked up along the garter ridges and cast-on edge to establish the foundation. From this small base, the shawl expands dramatically through strategic increases worked across right-side rows.

The pattern uses both chart and written instructions for the border section, allowing knitters to follow their preferred method. The shawl is worked in the round on a long circular needle, which accommodates the increasing stitch count as the piece grows.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Garter stitch – formed by knitting every row, used for the tab and edge borders to create a textured, reversible fabric
• Stockinette stitch – smooth knit-purl combination used for the main body of the shawl
• Yarn overs (yo) – decorative increases that create lace-like openings and contribute to the shawl's drape and visual interest
• Increases – multiple increase rows (Inc Row 1, Inc Row 2, Inc Row 3, and Inc Row 7) that expand the stitch count from 9 stitches to 517 stitches, creating the triangular shape
• Blocking – the finished shawl is blocked to achieve accurate finished measurements and to enhance drape

Materials: Yarn and Needles

The Prairie Rose Shawl is designed to be worked in Berroco Bozzolo, a yarn that requires 4 balls of the colorway #10803 Spicebush (100 g per ball). This yarn choice is integral to the pattern's design and drape.

Needles required include a 32-inch circular needle in size 8 (5 mm), or a longer circular needle if preferred, with the option to size up or down to achieve the specified gauge. A tapestry needle is needed for weaving in ends.

Gauge and Skill Level

The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch, measured after blocking. Checking gauge before beginning is emphasized to ensure accurate finished measurements. The pattern is labeled as Intermediate skill level, making it suitable for knitters with some experience who are comfortable with circular needle work, yarn overs, and following multi-row increase sequences.