The Serenity Shawl: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Textured, Asymmetrical Wrap with Cascading Lace

Wrap Yourself in Calm: Introducing the Serenity Shawl

There are some knitting projects that feel like a deep breath. The Serenity Shawl is one of them. This modern, asymmetrical wrap combines the soothing, rhythmic repetition of garter stitch with a delicate, cascading lace border. The result is a stunning, versatile accessory that is as enjoyable to knit as it is to wear. Designed for the intermediate knitter looking for a mindful project, this free pattern will guide you through creating a textured, cozy shawl that drapes beautifully. The gentle increases and simple lace repeat make this a perfect project for relaxing evenings, offering a beautiful balance of structure and flow.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies. Using the recommended materials will help you achieve the best results, but feel free to substitute with similar yarns to make it your own.

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn (Category 4). Approximately 600-700 yards. The sample shown uses a soft, heathered sage green (e.g., Malabrigo Rios in 'Piedras').
• Needles: US Size 8 (5.0 mm) circular needle, 32-inch or longer cord, or size needed to obtain gauge.
• Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in garter stitch, blocked. Getting the correct gauge is important for the final size and drape of your shawl.
• Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends, stitch markers (optional, for lace repeats), blocking pins and mats.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This shawl is worked from the top down, starting with a small garter stitch tab and increasing along one edge to create the asymmetrical shape. The lace border is worked at the end. Follow these instructions carefully, and you'll have a beautiful shawl in no time.

Abbreviations

• k = knit
• p = purl
• k2tog = knit two together
• yo = yarn over
• ssk = slip slip knit
• st(s) = stitch(es)
• RS = right side
• WS = wrong side

Section 1: Garter Stitch Body

We begin by creating the main body of the shawl. This section is worked entirely in garter stitch (knit every row) with a single increase on every row, always on the same edge. This creates the long, asymmetrical triangle shape.

1. Cast on 3 stitches.
2. Row 1 (RS): K1, yo, k to end. (4 sts)
3. Row 2 (WS): K1, yo, k to end. (5 sts)
4. Row 3: K1, yo, k to end. (6 sts)
5. Row 4: K1, yo, k to end. (7 sts)

Continue in this manner, repeating Rows 1-2 (always increasing on the same side – the left edge when looking at the RS) until you have 101 stitches on your needle. The shawl will form a long, asymmetrical triangle. Tip: Place a stitch marker on the increase edge to help you keep track of which side to increase on.

Section 2: Lace Border

Now you will work the lace border across all stitches. The border is a 6-row repeat. Pay close attention to the stitch counts, as they increase with each row due to the yarn overs.

1. Row 1 (RS): K1, yo, *k2tog, yo; repeat from * to last 2 sts, k2. (102 sts)
2. Row 2 (WS): K1, yo, k to end. (103 sts)
3. Row 3: K1, yo, *ssk, yo; repeat from * to last 2 sts, k2. (104 sts)
4. Row 4: K1, yo, k to end. (105 sts)
5. Row 5: K1, yo, *k2tog, yo; repeat from * to last 2 sts, k2. (106 sts)
6. Row 6: K1, yo, k to end. (107 sts)

Repeat Rows 1-6 three more times (total of 4 lace repeats). You will have 125 stitches after the final row.

Bind Off (Very Loosely)

This special bind-off creates a stretchy, picot-like edge that perfectly complements the lace. It is crucial to work this loosely to maintain the drape of the shawl.

1. Knit 2 stitches.
2. *Insert left needle into the front of both stitches on right needle and knit them together through the back loop (k2tog tbl).
3. Knit 1 stitch.
4. Repeat from * until all stitches are bound off.

Finishing

Proper finishing will transform your knitting into a beautiful, professional-looking shawl. Blocking is essential to open up the lace pattern and even out the stitches.

1. Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle. Be sure to weave them in securely on the wrong side of the work.
2. Soak the shawl in lukewarm water with a touch of wool wash for 20 minutes.
3. Gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring, as this can felt the wool). Roll the shawl in a clean towel to remove more moisture.
4. Lay flat on a dry towel, gently stretching the lace points to open them up. Pin the points if desired to create a more defined scalloped edge.
5. Allow to dry completely before unpinning and wearing.