Orchid View

Orchid View Shawl by Anna Dalvi

Project Overview

The Orchid View Shawl is an intermediate-level knitted shawl designed by Anna Dalvi. This downloadable PDF pattern offers knitters a sophisticated triangular shawl construction available in two finished sizes, making it adaptable for different preferences and yarn quantities.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a triangular shawl with generous dimensions. The small size measures 152 cm (60 inches) in width and 76 cm (30 inches) in height when blocked. For those preferring a larger wrap, the large size expands to 194 cm (76 inches) in width and 97 cm (38 inches) in height. The shawl is designed to be worn as a versatile accessory that can drape elegantly across the shoulders or be styled as a wrap.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

The Orchid View Shawl employs a classic top-down triangular shawl construction method. The pattern begins with a small cast-on of just 5 stitches, then expands outward through strategic increases worked on right-side rows. This growth pattern is achieved through yarn-over increases positioned at key intervals throughout each right-side row, creating the characteristic triangular silhouette.

The shawl uses a two-section increase strategy: each right-side row incorporates yarn-over increases on either side of a central stitch, as well as additional yarn-over increases flanking the main pattern repeat. This creates multiple points of expansion that work together to form the shawl's shape. The wrong-side rows maintain structural integrity by working knit stitches at the edges and purling the interior stitches, which helps define the shawl's edges and allows the pattern to develop clearly.

Stitches Used

• Knit stitch (k) — the foundational stitch used throughout the shawl, particularly at the edges
• Purl stitch (p) — worked on wrong-side rows to create texture and definition in the interior of the shawl
• Yarn-over (yo) — the primary increase method, creating decorative eyelet holes that contribute to the shawl's lacy aesthetic and allow for gradual expansion
• Chart-based pattern stitches — the shawl incorporates a charted stitch pattern (Chart A) that repeats across the width of the shawl, adding visual interest and complexity to the finished piece

Materials and Specifications

The Orchid View Shawl is designed for 4-ply yarn weight. The pattern recommends Tush from Saffron Dyeworks, a luxury blend composed of 70% merino wool, 20% cashmere, and 10% nylon. This fiber content provides warmth, softness, and durability. The recommended yardage is 402 meters per 125 grams. For the small size, one skein is sufficient; the large size requires two skeins.

Knitting needles required are 4.5 mm (US size 7) circular needles, which accommodate the increasing stitch count as the shawl grows. A tapestry needle is needed for weaving in ends and finishing the completed shawl. The yarn color shown in the pattern is Red Sumac, though similar yarn colors may be substituted according to personal preference.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty. Knitters should be comfortable with basic stitches, yarn-over increases, reading knitting charts, and working circular needles. The repetitive nature of the pattern rows makes it accessible for those with foundational knitting skills who are ready to expand their abilities, though it is not recommended for absolute beginners.