Willow & Lark Caroline Shawl Knitting Pattern

Willow & Lark Caroline Shawl

What Is Being Made

The Caroline Shawl is an exquisitely textured knitted lace shawl designed by Willow & Lark as part of their Wonder Collection. This is a rectangular wrap measuring 46 cm (18 inches) in width and 200 cm (78¾ inches) in length, making it a versatile accessory suitable for draping and layering.

Techniques Used

Caroline combines lace and cabling techniques to create a distinctive ribbed, laced pattern throughout the garment. The shawl is worked flat on straight needles, making it accessible to intermediate knitters who have experience with decorative stitch patterns. The interplay of these two techniques produces the textured visual interest that defines this design.

Stitches and Stitch Work

The pattern employs fundamental knitting stitches including knit and purl stitches, which form the foundation of the lace and ribbed sections. Lace construction involves strategic yarn overs and decreases to create openwork patterns, while the cabling elements add dimensional texture. Stitches are repeated according to pattern instructions, with the shawl requiring attention to stitch count and tension throughout.

Materials and Tools

The Caroline Shawl is designed to be knitted using Willow & Lark Plume, a delicate yarn composed of 70% mohair and 30% silk. The pattern calls for 25g (0.9oz) per ball, with 6 balls required to complete the project. Suggested colourways include Berberis Red (316) and Tea Dance (308). Knitting is worked on one pair of 3.25mm (UK 10 / US 3) knitting needles.

Gauge and Finishing Details

The pattern specifies a tension of 30 stitches and 40 rows to 10cm (4 inches) when measured over the lace pattern using 3.25mm needles. Checking tension before beginning is essential, as working to incorrect tension will affect the finished dimensions and may result in leftover yarn or insufficient yardage. Knitters should prepare a tension swatch of at least 12cm (5 inches) square before starting the shawl.

Design Notes

Willow & Lark emphasizes that the Caroline Shawl has been specifically designed for their Plume yarn. The fiber composition, weight, twist, and silk-mohair blend significantly impact the finished appearance of the garment. Using Plume yarn is recommended to achieve results consistent with the designer's photographs and specifications. Yarn quantities provided are approximate and based on average requirements.