The Enchanted Lavender Bloom Shawl: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Textured, Asymmetrical Wrap

Wrap Yourself in Serenity: The Enchanted Lavender Bloom Shawl

Imagine the gentle breeze of a lavender field, the soft hum of bees, and the calming hues of purple and cream. That's the feeling we've captured in The Enchanted Lavender Bloom Shawl—a uniquely textured, asymmetrical wrap that's as cozy as it is elegant. This free knitting pattern combines the simplicity of garter stitch with delicate bobbles (our "lavender blooms") and a gentle lace edge, creating a piece that's perfect for cool evenings or a touch of handmade luxury. Designed for adventurous beginners and intermediate knitters alike, this shawl is worked from the top down, increasing on one side to form a beautiful, asymmetrical triangle. Let's get started!

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather these supplies. The pattern uses worsted weight yarn for a soft, drapey finish.

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn (Category 4).
  • Main Color (MC): Approximately 400 yards. Shown in Malabrigo Rios in 'Lavanda' (a rich dusty lavender).
  • Contrast Color (CC): Approximately 200 yards. Shown in Malabrigo Rios in 'Natural' (a creamy white).
• Needles: US Size 8 (5.0 mm) 32-inch circular knitting needle (or size to obtain gauge). The long circular needle is essential to hold the increasing number of stitches.
• Notions: Stitch markers (optional), tapestry needle for weaving in ends, blocking pins and mats.
• Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in Stockinette stitch (blocked). Gauge is important for achieving the correct size and drape.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Notes: This shawl is worked from the top down, increasing on one side to create an asymmetrical triangle. The pattern uses a simple stitch pattern of garter stitch, stockinette, and a bobble stitch for the 'lavender blooms'. The lace edge is added at the end. Read all instructions before beginning.

Abbreviations

• K = knit
• P = purl
• K2tog = knit two together (decrease)
• YO = yarn over (increase)
• M1L = make one left (increase, lean left)
• M1R = make one right (increase, lean right)
• MB (Make Bobble): K1, P1, K1, P1, K1 all into the same stitch (5 stitches), then pass the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th stitches over the 1st stitch. One bobble complete.

Shawl Body (Main Color - Lavender)

Cast on: Cast on 3 stitches.

• Row 1 (RS): K1, M1R, K to last stitch, M1L, K1. (5 stitches)
• Row 2 (WS): Knit all stitches.
• Row 3: K1, M1R, K to last stitch, M1L, K1. (7 stitches)
• Row 4: Knit all stitches.
• Row 5: K1, M1R, K to last stitch, M1L, K1. (9 stitches)
• Row 6: Knit all stitches.

Begin Bobble Pattern (Repeat Rows 7-14)

Row 7 (RS): K1, M1R, K2, *MB, K3* repeat from * to * until last 3 stitches, MB, K2, M1L, K1. (11 stitches)

Row 8 (WS): Knit all stitches.

Row 9: K1, M1R, K to last stitch, M1L, K1. (13 stitches)

Row 10: Knit all stitches.

Row 11: K1, M1R, K to last stitch, M1L, K1. (15 stitches)

Row 12: Knit all stitches.

Row 13: K1, M1R, K to last stitch, M1L, K1. (17 stitches)

Row 14: Knit all stitches.

Continue repeating Rows 7-14 until the shawl measures approximately 28 inches from the cast-on edge, ending after a Row 14 (WS). The number of stitches will increase by 2 every 2 rows. You should have approximately 100-120 stitches. The exact number isn't critical, but the shawl should be a generous triangle.

Lace Edge (Contrast Color - Natural)

Do not cut the main color. Switch to contrast color.

• Row 1 (RS): K1, *YO, K2tog* repeat from * to * until last stitch, K1.
• Row 2 (WS): Knit all stitches.
• Row 3: K1, *K2tog, YO* repeat from * to * until last stitch, K1.
• Row 4: Knit all stitches.

Repeat Rows 1-4 twice more (total of 12 rows of lace edge).

Bind Off & Finishing

Bind Off (Very Loosely): Bind off all stitches knitwise, being careful not to pull tight. A loose bind off is crucial to maintain the drape of the lace edge. Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle.

Blocking: Block the shawl to open up the lace and flatten the bobbles. Soak in lukewarm water with a gentle wool wash, gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring), and lay flat on a blocking mat. Pin out the lace edge to its full potential, shaping the asymmetrical triangle. Allow to dry completely. This step transforms the shawl, making the bobbles pop and the lace sing.

Congratulations! You've created your own Enchanted Lavender Bloom Shawl. Wrap it around your shoulders and enjoy the serene beauty of your handiwork. Happy knitting!