Shibui Knits Mistral Wrap Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits Mistral Shawl Collar Wrap

What Is Being Made

The Mistral Shawl Collar Wrap is a versatile, one-size knit wrap designed for cool weather wear. Measuring approximately 71 inches in width and 38 inches in length at its widest point, this wrap features a dramatically curved silhouette with a shawl collar that can be adjusted based on how the garment is worn. The innovative design includes functional afterthought pockets, making it both a stylish and practical layering piece. The wrap can be oriented to create either a larger or smaller shawl collar depending on which curved edge is positioned at the neck, offering design flexibility from a single pattern.

Techniques Used

Mistral is constructed using several key knitting techniques that make it accessible despite its elegant appearance. The wrap is worked flat on circular needles, meaning it is knitted back and forth in rows rather than in the round, which simplifies the construction process. The design is seamless, eliminating the need for seaming after completion. The wrap is worked bottom-up, beginning from the cast-on edge and progressing toward the top shawl collar. The pattern incorporates German Twisted Cast-On for a substantial stitch count at the foundation, ensuring a secure and elastic edge. Additional techniques include Garter Stitch Ridges (GSR) for shaping, make-one increases (both M1R and M1L variations) for shaping the wrap's curves, and knit-two-together and slip-slip-knit decreases for tailoring the silhouette. Afterthought pockets are incorporated into the design, adding both functionality and visual interest.

Stitches Used

The Mistral pattern employs fundamental knitting stitches suitable for an Easy+ skill level. Stockinette stitch forms the primary fabric, creating a smooth, refined surface. Garter stitch appears in the set-up rows and is used strategically in Garter Stitch Ridges for shaping definition. Knit and purl stitches are combined in ribbed sections during set-up. Standard decreases including knit-two-together (k2tog) and slip-slip-knit (ssk) are used to shape the wrap's curves, while make-one increases (M1R and M1L) add fullness to the design. These stitch combinations create the wrap's distinctive curved edges while remaining straightforward enough for knitters with intermediate experience.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Mistral is designed to be knit using Shibui Knits Nest yarn, a premium blend of 75% Fine Highland Wool and 25% Alpaca. Each skein contains 175 yards and weighs 50 grams. The pattern requires 16 skeins total, worked with two strands of Nest held together throughout construction, creating a voluminous, luxurious fabric. This yarn combination provides warmth, softness, and drape ideal for a wrap garment.

Tools and Needles Required

• Size 9 (5.5 mm) circular needle, 40 inches in length, for working the main fabric flat
• Size 9 (5.5 mm) double-pointed needles (dpns) for any necessary small-circumference knitting
• Stitch markers for tracking pattern sections and shaping points
• Waste yarn for holding stitches, particularly for the afterthought pocket construction
• Tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and finishing

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

The pattern is worked at a gauge of 15 stitches and 22 rows over 4 inches in Stockinette stitch after blocking, using two strands of Nest held together on a size 9 needle. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the intended finished dimensions. The completed wrap measures approximately 71 inches in width and 38 inches in length at the widest point, with a shoulder-to-center-back length of approximately 31 inches. These generous dimensions ensure the wrap provides ample coverage and comfort.

Skill Level and Design Features

Mistral is rated as Easy+, making it suitable for knitters with some experience who are ready