Anisoptera

Anisoptera Knit Shawl by Kate Poe

What Is Being Made

Anisoptera is a bottom-up knit shawl designed by Kate Poe and inspired by traditional Estonian shawl patterns. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a versatile shawl that can be customized to different sizes while maintaining the integrity of the classic Estonian design. The finished shawl features an optional beaded spine detail that adds visual interest and texture to the garment.

Pattern Customization and Sizing

One of the key features of the Anisoptera pattern is its flexibility in sizing. Knitters can easily adjust the finished dimensions of the shawl by adding or decreasing stitch counts in multiples of 20 stitches. This allows crafters to create a shawl that fits their specific needs, whether they prefer a smaller wrap or a larger statement piece. The pattern instructions provided refer to the shawl as written in the original design, with modifications available for those seeking different proportions.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

Anisoptera employs traditional Estonian knitting techniques that have been passed down through generations of fiber artists. The pattern utilizes stitch repeats throughout the design, which are typically separated using stitch markers to help knitters keep track of pattern sections. The shawl features a distinct spine repeat that runs down the center of the garment, and using a different colored stitch marker for the spine repeat is recommended to distinguish it from the surrounding pattern repeats. The construction method of knitting from the bottom up allows for gradual increases and shaping as the shawl grows on the needles.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Anisoptera pattern calls for fingering weight yarn in wool or wool blend fibers, with a yardage requirement of 360 to 400 yards. The pictured example was created using one skein of Three Irish Girls Springvale sock yarn, demonstrating that a single skein is sufficient to complete the project. Fingering weight yarn is a popular choice for shawl knitting because it creates delicate, intricate fabric that showcases stitch definition while remaining lightweight and wearable.

Needles and Tools

Knitters will need the following equipment to complete this project:

• Circular needles in US size 10 (6.0 mm) or the size needed to achieve desired gauge, with circular needles recommended for easier management of the increasing stitches
• A second set of needles two sizes larger (US size 12 or 8.0 mm) used exclusively for the cast-on process
• Stitch markers: a minimum of 2 markers, with additional markers recommended to separate pattern repeats throughout the shawl
• Locking stitch markers: 2 markers specifically used to mark the spine stitches immediately after casting on
• Darning needle for weaving in yarn ends upon completion

Optional Beading Details

For knitters who wish to embellish their Anisoptera shawl, the pattern includes optional beading along the spine of the garment. This embellishment uses 6/0 seed beads, with approximately 20 grams needed for the full project. Beads add a subtle sparkle and dimension to the shawl's centerline, though they are entirely optional and the shawl is equally beautiful without them.

Difficulty Level

Anisoptera is rated as an intermediate level knitting pattern, making it suitable for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to work with stitch repeats, increases, and shaping. The pattern's reliance on traditional Estonian techniques and the need to track multiple pattern repeats throughout the project make it an engaging choice for experienced knitters seeking to expand their skills.