Varennes Shawl Wrap Knitting Pattern

Varennes Shawl in Berroco Mochi

What is Being Made

The Varennes is a rectangular knitted shawl designed by Amy Christoffers. This intermediate-level knitting project produces a finished accessory measuring approximately 14 inches wide by 68 inches long (not including fringe), making it a versatile wrap suitable for layering or draping. The shawl features a distinctive color-blocked construction with alternating panels of contrasting hues.

Construction Technique

The Varennes employs a unique modular construction method that begins with a center panel worked lengthwise from end to end. Rather than knitting the entire shawl in one piece, this pattern uses a strategic approach: the center panel is completed first, then stitches are picked up along the side edges of this central panel, and side panels are worked outward from those picked-up stitches. This technique allows for precise stitch placement and creates clean, structured edges.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques

The primary stitch used throughout the Varennes is Garter Stitch, which creates a textured, reversible fabric ideal for wraps and shawls. Garter stitch is formed by knitting every row, producing horizontal ridges on both sides of the fabric. The pattern specifies a gauge of 16 stitches and 30 rows equaling 4 inches in Garter Stitch, and knitters are advised to check gauge before beginning to ensure accurate finished measurements.

The pattern incorporates several essential knitting techniques beyond basic stitch work:

• Long-tail cast-on method for creating the initial stitches of the center panel
• Pick up and knit technique for adding stitches along the side edges of the completed center panel
• Sewn bind-off method for finishing edges with a professional appearance, worked using a tapestry needle
• Yarn joining to transition between color blocks while maintaining pattern continuity

Materials: Yarn and Tools

The Varennes is designed to be worked in Berroco Mochi, a yarn that provides excellent drape and stitch definition for this project. The yarn requirements total 200 grams across three colors: 3 balls (150 grams) of #3202 Vanilla as the main color, 1 ball (50 grams) of #3212 Plum for the first contrasting color, and 1 ball (50 grams) of #3219 Red Bean for the second contrasting color. This color combination creates a sophisticated palette suitable for various styling occasions.

The required needles and notions include a 40-inch circular needle in size 8 (5 mm) or the size needed to achieve the specified gauge, a tapestry needle for the sewn bind-off and weaving in ends, and a size H (8 mm) crochet hook for finishing details such as fringe. The circular needle accommodates the large number of stitches required for the side panels without crowding.

Skill Level and Pattern Characteristics

Rated as an intermediate project, the Varennes requires knitters to be comfortable with fundamental techniques including cast-on methods, consistent gauge work, color changes, and specialty finishing techniques. The modular construction approach adds complexity beyond basic shawl knitting, making this pattern suitable for knitters with some experience who are ready to expand their technical skills. The downloadable PDF format provides detailed row-by-row instructions to guide knitters through each construction phase.