Shibui Knits Solace Wrap Knitting Pattern

Shibui Knits Solace Wrap: Elegant Knit Shawl and Wrap Pattern

What is Being Made

The Solace Wrap is a versatile knitted wrap and shawl designed by Sandy Barnes for Shibui Knits. This project offers two finished size options: a smaller scarf measuring 10.75 inches in width by 62 inches in length, or a larger wrap measuring 18.5 inches in width by 82 inches in length. The design emphasizes striking proportions and chic texture, making it an elegant autumn layer that combines warmth with sophisticated style. The wrap is suitable for knitters of Easy+ skill level and works beautifully as both a functional wrap and a decorative accessory.

Knitting Techniques Used

Solace is constructed using seamless, worked flat knitting techniques. The pattern begins with a foundational 2×2 ribbed section that provides structure and elasticity to the piece. The main body then transitions into a graphic knit and purl stitch pattern that creates visual interest through texture, bordered by 1×1 ribbing on the sides. The pattern employs the German Twisted Cast-On method to begin the piece, which creates a neat and professional edge. Slipped stitches are incorporated as a finishing technique for a polished appearance. The wrap is knit with two strands held together throughout the entire project, combining different yarn weights and fiber types for optimal drape and texture.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Solace Wrap utilizes fundamental knitting stitches combined in strategic ways. The pattern features 2×2 ribbing at the beginning, which alternates knit and purl stitches in a two-by-two repeat to create vertical columns of texture. The main body showcases a graphic knit and purl stitch pattern that creates dimensional texture through the interplay of knit and purl stitches in a charted design. 1×1 ribbing borders the sides of the main pattern section, providing definition and preventing edge curl. Slipped stitches are used at the beginning of rows for a clean, finished selvage edge. Both charted and written instructions are provided for the stitch pattern, allowing knitters to follow their preferred method. Gauge is measured at 22 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in the stitch pattern, or 24 stitches and 27 rows over 4 inches in the relaxed gauge after blocking.

Materials: Yarn and Tools

The Solace Wrap is designed to be knit with a luxurious combination of premium yarns held together as one. Shibui Knits Echo is a fine yarn composed of 52% Silk Noil and 48% Fine Merino, providing softness and breathability. This yarn comes in 160-yard skeins weighing 40 grams, with knitters requiring 4 skeins for the smaller scarf or 7 skeins for the larger wrap. Shibui Knits Silk Cloud is a luxurious blend of 60% Kid Mohair and 40% Silk, offering exceptional drape and a subtle halo effect. This yarn provides 330 yards per 25-gram skein, requiring 2 skeins for the scarf size or 4 skeins for the wrap size. One strand of Echo is held together with one strand of Silk Cloud throughout the entire project, creating a sumptuous blend of fibers.

The required tools include US Size 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles measuring 24 inches in length, which accommodate the cast-on stitches while allowing for flat knitting. A tapestry needle is necessary for weaving in ends and finishing the piece. After completion, the wrap should be blocked to finished dimensions of 12.75 inches wide by 60 inches long for the scarf, or 20 inches wide by 80 inches long for the wrap. The fabric will relax with wear to the finished measurements, and blocking helps set the stitch pattern and achieve the desired drape characteristic of this elegant design.