Tahki Yarns Sanderling Shawl Knitting Pattern

Tahki Yarns Sanderling Shawl

Project Overview

The Sanderling Shawl is an intermediate-level knitted wrap designed by Sandi Rosner. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a generous triangular shawl worked flat from the center back neck outward and downward to the lower edges. The finished shawl features a wingspan of 65 inches (165 cm) and a center length of 31 inches (78.5 cm), making it an elegant and versatile accessory suitable for layering or wearing as a traditional wrap.

Construction Technique

The Sanderling Shawl employs a distinctive modular construction method that begins at the center back neck and expands outward in sections. Rather than working the entire shawl as one continuous piece, the pattern is divided into alternating left and right side sections that are systematically joined together. Each section is worked on its own circular needle, with stitches remaining live on the needles between sections rather than being placed on holders. This technique allows for seamless integration of each new section as it is picked up and knitted along the straight edge of the previously completed section. The work alternates between even-numbered sections (left side) and odd-numbered sections (right side), creating a balanced, symmetrical construction.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout the Sanderling Shawl is garter stitch, which is created by knitting every row. This fundamental stitch provides a textured, reversible fabric with excellent drape and elasticity, making it ideal for shawl construction. The pattern incorporates yarn overs (abbreviated as yo) to create decorative lace elements and strategic shaping. A special technique called yarn over backwards (yob) is employed, which is worked by bringing yarn from back over the top of the right-hand needle, then around the front and between needles to the back. On the following row, this yarn over is knitted through the front loop to twist the stitch and prevent unwanted holes. Additionally, the pattern uses knit two together (k2tog) decreases in combination with yarn overs to create lace pattern repeats that add visual interest while maintaining structural integrity.

Materials and Gauge

The Sanderling Shawl requires 2 skeins each of Tahki Yarns CLASSIC SUPERWASH in two coordinating colorways: color #006 fawn (A) and color #001 natural (B). Tahki Yarns CLASSIC SUPERWASH is a 100% superwash wool yarn with yardage of 218 yards per 100 grams (200 meters per 100 grams), with each skein weighing 3.5 ounces. The superwash treatment makes this yarn easy to care for, as it can be machine washed without felting.

The pattern calls for two size 8 (5 mm) circular needles, each 32 inches (80 cm) long, or a size that will obtain the required gauge. A size 10 (6 mm) knitting needle in any style is used for binding off, allowing for a slightly looser bind-off edge that maintains the shawl's elegant drape. A yarn needle is needed for weaving in ends.

The gauge for the Sanderling Shawl is 14½ stitches and 31 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when worked in garter stitch and blocked. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished dimensions, and knitters are advised to take time to check gauge before beginning the project.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, the Sanderling Shawl is suitable for knitters with some experience. While garter stitch itself is a beginner-friendly technique, the modular construction method, management of multiple live stitches across separate needles, and the incorporation of yarn overs and decreases require intermediate-level skills and attention to pattern instructions.