Universal Yarn Desert Dreams eBook Crochet Pattern

Universal Yarn Desert Dreams eBook Crochet Pattern

About the Kalahari Wrap

The Kalahari Wrap is a striking knitted stole designed by Amy Gunderson that combines multiple techniques to create visual interest through simple stitchwork elevated to an advanced level. This finished piece measures 23 inches wide and 70 inches long, making it a versatile accessory suitable for various occasions and styling options.

Design and Construction Techniques

The Kalahari Wrap showcases a sophisticated construction method that blends three primary techniques: striping, short-row shaping, and chevron patterning. The design features solid-colored diamond motifs created through short-row shaping, which are framed by a striped chevron pattern. This combination of techniques transforms basic knitting stitches into an eye-catching garment with dimensional depth and visual complexity.

Stitch Patterns and Details

The wrap employs two distinct chevron patterns to achieve its design:

• Chevron Pattern A: A repeating pattern that incorporates knit and purl stitches with yarn overs and decreases to create the characteristic chevron shaping
• Chevron Pattern B: A multiple of 18 stitches plus 3, worked using make-one increases (m1), knit stitches, slip-slip-knit decreases (sl 2-k1-p2sso), and knit stitches to form the chevron structure

The wrap uses wrap-and-turn (W&T) short-row shaping to create the diamond sections. This technique involves wrapping stitches on right-side rows and working wrapped stitches together on subsequent rows to eliminate holes and create seamless shaping.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Kalahari Wrap is designed to showcase two coordinating yarns from the Fibra Natura collection:

• Fibra Natura Unity Beyond: A blend of 36% wool, 28% cotton, 18% linen, and 18% bamboo in a 100-gram skein with 262 yards. The main color (MC) is Overcast, requiring 4 skeins, with Deeply Blue (CC1) as the primary contrast color, requiring 2 skeins.
• Fibra Natura Unity: The same fiber content blend (36% wool, 28% cotton, 18% linen, 18% bamboo) in 100-gram skeins with 262 yards. Sage (CC2) serves as the secondary contrast color, requiring 2 skeins.

The fiber blend creates a fabric with natural warmth from wool, breathability from cotton and linen, and subtle sheen and drape from bamboo, making the wrap suitable for year-round wear.

Needles and Notions

The pattern requires US Size 6 (4 mm) circular needles in a 32-inch length to accommodate the large number of stitches required for the wrap's width. US Size 4 (3.5 mm) circular needles are used specifically for the diamond sections only. The gauge for one repeat of the Chevron Pattern measures 3¼ inches wide using the larger needles. Additional notions include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and blocking wires and pins for finishing.

Color and Design Palette

The wrap features a soothing color palette utilizing the soft, earthy tones available in the Fibra Natura Unity and Unity Beyond collections. The combination of Overcast, Deeply Blue, and Sage creates a cohesive, sophisticated color scheme that works well for various skin tones and wardrobe preferences.