Emberfall Asymmetrical Shawl: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Cascading Leaf Motif Wrap

Wrap yourself in the warm, earthy tones of autumn with this stunning asymmetrical shawl. The Emberfall Shawl features a delicate leaf lace pattern that cascades down one side, creating a beautiful, organic drape. Knitted in a soft, worsted-weight yarn with a rich burnt orange main color and a cream contrast border, this wrap is the perfect layering piece for cool evenings, rustic gatherings, or simply curling up with a good book. This free pattern is designed to be accessible for confident beginners who are ready to explore lace knitting, with clear, step-by-step instructions.

This shawl is not just an accessory; it's a statement of craftsmanship. The asymmetrical shape is both modern and timeless, and the leaf motif evokes the beauty of falling foliage. The combination of the warm MC and the crisp CC creates a striking visual contrast that will make this wrap a favorite in your wardrobe for years to come.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following materials to ensure a smooth and enjoyable knitting experience. The quality of your yarn and tools will greatly impact the final look and feel of your shawl.

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in two colors:
  • Main Color (MC): Burnt Orange (approx. 400 yards)
  • Contrast Color (CC): Cream (approx. 200 yards)
• Needles: US 8 (5.0 mm) circular knitting needle, 32 inches or longer. The long circular needle is essential to accommodate the growing number of stitches.
• Notions: Stitch markers (at least 2), tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and blocking pins/mats for the finishing touches.
• Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch (after blocking). While gauge is important for size, the drapey nature of this shawl is forgiving. Still, it's best to check your gauge to ensure you use the correct amount of yarn.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This shawl is worked from the top center outwards, increasing on one side to create the asymmetrical shape. The leaf lace pattern is provided in written form. Take your time, read through the entire pattern first, and don't hesitate to use stitch markers to help you keep track of the pattern repeats.

Abbreviations

• k = knit
• p = purl
• yo = yarn over
• k2tog = knit two together (right-leaning decrease)
• ssk = slip, slip, knit (left-leaning decrease)
• pm = place marker
• sm = slip marker
• MC = Main Color
• CC = Contrast Color
• RS = Right Side
• WS = Wrong Side

Setup

Let's begin by creating the foundation of your shawl. This small triangular start will be the center point from which the entire wrap grows.

1. With MC, cast on 3 stitches.
2. Row 1 (WS): k3.
3. Row 2 (RS): k1, yo, k1, yo, k1. (You now have 5 stitches).
4. Row 3: k3, p1, k1. (5 stitches).
5. Row 4: k1, yo, k1, yo, k2. (You now have 7 stitches).
6. Row 5: k3, p2, k1, p1. (7 stitches).

Increase Section (Worked in MC)

This section establishes the asymmetrical shape. You will increase one stitch at the beginning of every RS row and decrease one stitch at the end, keeping the left edge straight and the right edge growing.

1. Row 6 (RS): k1, yo, k to last 2 stitches, k2tog. (Increase at beginning, decrease at end to keep one side straight.)
2. Row 7 (WS): k3, p to last 3 stitches, k3.
3. Repeat Rows 6-7 until you have 45 stitches on the needle, ending with a WS row. This creates the solid base for your lace pattern.

Leaf Lace Pattern (Worked in MC and CC)

Now for the heart of the shawl! The leaf lace pattern is a 12-row repeat. You will continue the edge increases and decreases on every RS row, which will make the shawl grow in width as you work the pattern. The pattern is written to be repeated across the row. The number of stitches will increase by 2 on every RS row (one at the start, one at the end), so the pattern will naturally expand.

Row 1 (RS, MC): k1, yo, k1, *yo, ssk, k7, k2tog, yo, k1; repeat from * to last 4 stitches, k2, k2tog.

Row 2 (WS, MC): k3, p to last 3 stitches, k3.

Row 3 (RS, MC): k1, yo, k2, *yo, ssk, k5, k2tog, yo, k3; repeat from * to last 3 stitches, k1, k2tog.

Row 4 (WS, MC): k3, p to last 3 stitches, k3.

Row 5 (RS, MC): k1, yo, k3, *yo, ssk, k3, k2tog, yo, k5; repeat from * to last 2 stitches, k2tog.

Row 6 (WS, MC): k3, p to last 3 stitches, k3.

Row 7 (RS, CC): k1, yo, k4, *yo, ssk, k1, k2tog, yo, k7; repeat from * to last 1 stitch, k1, k2tog.

Row 8 (WS, CC): k3, p to last 3 stitches, k3.

Row 9 (RS, CC): k1, yo, k5, *yo, ssk, k2tog, yo, k9; repeat from * to last 0 stitches, k2tog.

Row 10 (WS, CC): k3, p to last 3 stitches, k3.

Row 11 (RS, MC): k1, yo, k6, *yo, ssk, k1, k2tog, yo, k7; repeat from * to last 1 stitch, k1, k2tog.

Row 12 (WS, MC): k3, p to last 3 stitches, k3.

Repeat Rows 1-12 until the shawl measures approximately 28 inches from the cast-on edge, ending with a WS row. Remember, you are increasing 2 stitches every RS row, so the shawl will grow in width and the leaf pattern will expand beautifully.

Final Increase Section (in MC)

Once you've completed the lace section, you'll add a solid border to frame the pattern and give the shawl structure.

1. Continue working Rows 6-7 of the "Increase Section" (k1, yo, k to last 2 sts, k2tog on RS; k3, p to last 3 sts, k3 on WS) until the shawl measures 32 inches from the cast-on edge, ending with a WS row.

Edging (in CC)

This simple garter stitch border in the contrast color adds a clean, crisp finish and helps the shawl lay flat.

1. Row 1 (RS): k1, yo, k to last 2 stitches, k2tog.
2. Row 2 (WS): k3, p to last 3 stitches, k3.
3. Repeat these 2 rows for 2 inches, ending with a WS row.

Bind Off & Finishing

1. Bind Off (in CC): Bind off loosely in pattern (knitwise on RS). A loose bind-off is crucial for a stretchy, drapey edge. Consider using a larger needle or a stretchy bind-off method if needed.
2. Weave in all ends with a tapestry needle, being careful not to pull too tightly.
3. Block the shawl gently to open up the lace pattern and shape the asymmetrical drape. Pin it out to the desired dimensions, spritz with water, and allow it to dry completely. This step is essential for lace knitting to truly shine.

Your Emberfall Shawl is now complete! The rich burnt orange and cream colors, combined with the delicate leaf lace, create a stunning piece that captures the essence of autumn. Enjoy wearing it, or gift it to someone special who appreciates the beauty of handcrafted items. Happy knitting!