Penumbra Shawl

Penumbra Shawl by Knit and Crochet Ever After

What is Being Made

The Penumbra Shawl is an intermediate-level triangular shawl designed by Deja Joy. This downloadable knitting pattern produces a finished shawl measuring approximately 30 inches in depth with a 68-inch wingspan, making it a versatile accessory suitable for layering or wearing as a wrap.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is created using knitting as the primary craft method. The shawl construction begins with a provisional cast-on using a crochet hook and waste yarn, allowing for a seamless foundation. The pattern includes charted lace sections that are worked flat on circular needles, with the design expanding outward from the center point to create the triangular silhouette characteristic of modern shawl construction.

Stitches and Techniques Used

The Penumbra Shawl employs stockinette stitch as the primary fabric base, with lace patterning integrated throughout the design. The pattern utilizes charted instructions that show the lace portions between stitch markers, requiring knitters to read charts in addition to written directions. Stitch markers are essential tools for tracking pattern repeats and maintaining shaping throughout the project. The designer provides video tutorials on their website for all stitches used in the pattern, supporting knitters who may be less familiar with specific techniques.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Penumbra Shawl requires approximately 600 yards of worsted weight yarn. The pattern is designed using Universal Yarn Colorburst in Chevron (colorway 113), though the designer notes that any medium worsted weight yarn may be substituted. One skein of Universal Yarn Colorburst contains 200 grams and yields 660 yards, providing ample yardage for this project with potential for a coordinating border or additional embellishments.

Tools and Equipment

• US 6 (4.0mm) circular needles in 32- to 40-inch length, depending on knitter preference
• 4.0mm crochet hook for the provisional cast-on technique
• 4 stitch markers for tracking pattern sections and shaping
• Yarn or tapestry needle for weaving in ends and finishing
• Waste yarn for the provisional cast-on foundation

Gauge and Finished Measurements

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 14 stitches and 20 rows per 4 inches in stockinette stitch after blocking. Achieving proper gauge is important for obtaining the intended finished measurements of approximately 30 inches in depth and 68 inches across the wingspan. The designer emphasizes reading through the entire pattern before beginning and notes that chart sections show only the portions between stitch markers, requiring knitters to add border stitches and the center stitch as explained in the written instructions.

Skill Level and Pattern Support

Rated as intermediate difficulty, the Penumbra Shawl is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to work with charts and manage multiple pattern sections. The designer, Deja Joy of Knit and Crochet Ever After, provides supplementary video tutorials on her website to support knitters working through all stitches and techniques featured in this pattern, making it more accessible to those expanding their skill set.