Thunder and Lightning

Thunder and Lightning Shawl by Tanja Luescher

What is Being Made

Thunder and Lightning is an intermediate-level knitted shawl designed by Tanja Luescher. This top-down constructed Faroese shawl features a wingspan of approximately 114 cm (45 inches) with a depth of 42 cm (16.5 inches), making it a generous triangular wrap suitable for layering or wearing as a statement piece.

Knitting Techniques Used

This shawl employs top-down construction, a popular method for creating seamless shawls that allows knitters to customize the final size by continuing to knit until desired dimensions are reached. The Faroese shawl construction method is featured, which typically involves strategic increases and pattern sections that create elegant draping. The design incorporates garter stitch sections alongside a decorative border pattern, combining textural variety with visual interest.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The shawl utilizes garter stitch as a primary component, which creates a reversible, textured fabric with excellent drape. A Border pattern is integrated into the design, adding decorative complexity and visual definition to the edges. The pattern requires careful stitch marker placement—8 stitch markers (4 of Color A and 4 of Color B) are essential for tracking increases and pattern repeats, with an optional additional 15 stitch markers available for border work.

Gauge Information

• Garter stitch gauge: 19 stitches and 38 rows = 10 cm (4 inches) after blocking
• Border pattern gauge: 23 stitches and 17 rows = 10 cm (4 inches) after blocking

The designer notes that gauge is not vital for this project, though it will affect both the finished size and yardage requirements. Knitters should swatch according to their personal tension preferences.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The pattern calls for Garnstudio Drops Lace yarn in Royal Blue (#6790), requiring 1 hank of the 100 g (3.53 oz) / 800 m (875 yd) skein. This laceweight yarn is composed of 70% alpaca and 30% silk, providing a luxurious blend with excellent drape and sheen. Alternatively, approximately 400 m (440 yards) of any laceweight yarn of choice can be substituted, offering flexibility for yarn selection and color preferences.

Needles and Tools

The project requires a 3 mm (US 2 or 3) circular needle measuring 80 cm (32 inches), or a size that produces fabric according to personal preference. The designer notes that as a loose knitter, larger needles may be necessary for knitters with tighter tension to achieve desired fabric characteristics. Stitch markers in two distinct colors are essential for tracking pattern repeats and increases throughout construction.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, this shawl is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle pattern complexity and top-down shawl construction. The combination of garter stitch simplicity with border pattern work provides a balanced challenge.