The Whispering Dune Shawl: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Textured, Asymmetrical Wrap
Wrap Yourself in the Whispering Dune Shawl
Imagine the soft, shifting sands of a desert landscape, captured in a modern, asymmetrical wrap. The Whispering Dune Shawl is a free knitting pattern that brings this vision to life, using a unique combination of slipped stitches and yarn overs to create a fabric that is both lightweight and deeply textural. This pattern is perfect for adventurous beginners and intermediate knitters looking to explore texture without complex lace. The result is a stunning, boho-chic accessory that drapes beautifully and adds a touch of organic elegance to any outfit.
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the following supplies. Using the exact specifications will ensure your shawl matches the sample in size and drape.
- Yarn: Worsted weight yarn (Category 4). Approximately 600-700 yards. The sample shown uses a heathered terracotta and cream variegated yarn for a beautiful, natural dune effect.
- Needles: US Size 8 (5.0 mm) circular knitting needle, 32-inch or longer cord. The long cord is essential to hold the increasing number of stitches.
- Notions: Stitch markers (optional, for pattern repeats), tapestry needle for weaving in ends, blocking pins and mats.
- Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch, after blocking. Gauge is important for achieving the correct size and drape.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This pattern is worked flat from the top down, increasing on one edge to create the asymmetrical shape. A slipped stitch edge is used on both sides for a clean, polished finish. The main texture uses a 4-row repeat.
Abbreviations
- CO: Cast on
- K: Knit
- P: Purl
- Sl1 wyif: Slip 1 stitch purlwise with yarn in front
- Sl1 wyib: Slip 1 stitch purlwise with yarn in back
- YO: Yarn over
- K2tog: Knit two stitches together
- SSK: Slip, slip, knit (a left-leaning decrease)
- St(s): Stitch(es)
- M1L: Make one left (increase)
Getting Started
Cast On: CO 20 stitches loosely. You will begin the pattern immediately.
The Main Pattern (4-Row Repeat)
Row 1 (Right Side): Sl1 wyif, K1, *K2, YO, K2tog, K1, Sl1 wyib, K1, YO, SSK, K2; repeat from * to last 2 sts, K2.
Row 2 (Wrong Side): Sl1 wyif, K1, *P2, P2tog, YO, P1, Sl1 wyif, P1, YO, P2tog tbl, P2; repeat from * to last 2 sts, K2.
Row 3: Sl1 wyif, K1, *K1, YO, SSK, K2, Sl1 wyib, K2, YO, K2tog, K1; repeat from * to last 2 sts, K2.
Row 4: Sl1 wyif, K1, *P1, YO, P2tog tbl, P2, Sl1 wyif, P2, P2tog, YO, P1; repeat from * to last 2 sts, K2.
Repeat Rows 1-4 for the main texture.
Shaping the Asymmetrical Shawl
To create the unique asymmetrical shape, you will increase on the right side (the beginning of the row) every 8 rows.
- Increase Row (Right Side): Sl1 wyif, K1, M1L (make one left), knit to end. This adds one stitch at the beginning of the row.
- Work the 4-row pattern repeat twice (8 rows total) between each increase row. This means you will work Rows 1-4, then Rows 1-4 again, and then work the Increase Row on the next Right Side row.
- Continue this sequence until the shawl measures approximately 60 inches along the longest edge, or until you have reached your desired length. Always end after completing a Wrong Side row (Row 2 or Row 4).
Bind Off & Finishing
Bind Off: Bind off loosely on the right side using a stretchy bind off. Jeny's Surprisingly Stretchy Bind Off is highly recommended to ensure the edge is not tight and the shawl can drape beautifully.
Finishing:
- Weave in all ends carefully with a tapestry needle.
- Block the shawl gently to open up the lace and texture. Soak in lukewarm water with a gentle wool wash, then gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring).
- Lay flat on blocking mats. Pin the edges to shape the asymmetrical points, stretching gently to open the slipped stitch patterns. Allow to dry completely before removing pins.
Your Whispering Dune Shawl is now ready to wear. Enjoy the beautiful, undulating texture and the graceful, modern shape you've created.
