The Bracken Ridge Easy Elegant Triangle Shawl: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Textured, Asymmetrical Wrap
Wrap Yourself in Texture: The Bracken Ridge Easy Elegant Triangle Shawl
There’s something deeply satisfying about creating a piece that looks far more complex than it actually is. The Bracken Ridge Shawl is exactly that—a modern, asymmetrical triangle wrap that uses a simple slipped-stitch technique to mimic the look of handwoven fabric. Designed with beginners in mind, this free knitting pattern guides you through a rhythmic, meditative process that results in a dense, warm, and beautifully textured shawl. Whether you choose two contrasting neutrals like the sample’s Oatmeal and Fisherman, or a single gradient yarn, this project is a perfect way to build confidence while making a stunning, wearable accessory.
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the following supplies. The pattern is written for worsted weight yarn (Category 4), which creates a cozy, substantial fabric.
- Yarn: Worsted weight yarn (Category 4). The sample uses approximately 400 yards total (2 skeins) of Lion Brand Wool-Ease in ‘Oatmeal’ (Color A) and ‘Fisherman’ (Color B). You can substitute any worsted weight yarn of your choice.
- Needles: US Size 8 (5.0 mm) knitting needles, or the size needed to obtain gauge. Straight or circular needles work fine.
- Notions: A tapestry needle for weaving in ends. Optional: stitch markers to help track increases.
- Gauge: 18 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches in slipped stitch pattern (after blocking). Gauge is important for achieving the correct size and drape, so take a moment to swatch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This shawl is worked flat from the top center point downward, increasing on each side to form a triangle. The slipped stitch pattern creates a dense, warm fabric with a beautiful woven texture. The pattern is written for two colors (Color A and Color B), but you can use a single color or a gradient yarn.
Abbreviations
- CO: Cast on
- K: Knit
- Sl: Slip stitch purlwise with yarn in back
- YO: Yarn over
- K2tog: Knit two stitches together
- St(s): Stitch(es)
- RS: Right side
- WS: Wrong side
Setup
With Color A, CO 3 sts.
Row 1 (RS): K1, YO, K1, YO, K1. (5 sts)
Row 2 (WS): K2, P1, K2. (5 sts)
Begin Slipped Stitch Pattern
Row 3 (RS): With Color A, K2, *Sl 1, K1; repeat from * to last 2 sts, K2. (5 sts)
Row 4 (WS): With Color A, K2, *P1, Sl 1; repeat from * to last 2 sts, K2. (5 sts)
Increase Rows (Repeat these 2 rows for the body)
These four rows (Rows 5-8) form the pattern repeat. You will repeat them until the shawl reaches your desired size. Note that the stitch count increases by 2 stitches every 2 rows (one increase on each side).
Row 5 (RS): With Color B, K2, YO, *K1, Sl 1; repeat from * to last 2 sts, K1, YO, K2. (7 sts)
Row 6 (WS): With Color B, K2, *Sl 1, P1; repeat from * to last 2 sts, K2. (7 sts)
Row 7 (RS): With Color A, K2, YO, *Sl 1, K1; repeat from * to last 2 sts, YO, K2. (9 sts)
Row 8 (WS): With Color A, K2, *P1, Sl 1; repeat from * to last 2 sts, K2. (9 sts)
Repeat Rows 5-8 until the shawl measures approximately 60 inches across the top edge (or your desired length), ending with a WS row. The number of stitches will increase by 2 every 2 rows, so your stitch count will grow steadily. For a smaller shawl, stop earlier; for a larger wrap, continue repeating.
Final Rows
These rows create a neat, garter-stitch border before binding off.
Next Row (RS): With Color A, K2, YO, *K1, Sl 1; repeat from * to last 2 sts, YO, K2.
Next Row (WS): With Color A, K2, *P1, Sl 1; repeat from * to last 2 sts, K2.
Bind Off (RS)
With Color A, K2, *K2tog, pass first stitch over; repeat from * until 1 stitch remains. Cut yarn and pull through. This creates a stretchy, decorative edge that mirrors the garter stitch border.
Finishing
Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle. Block the shawl gently to open up the stitches and even out the texture. To block, soak the shawl in lukewarm water for 15-20 minutes, gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring), and lay flat on a towel. Shape to your desired dimensions, pinning the edges if needed. Allow to dry completely. The slipped stitch pattern will relax and the woven texture will become more pronounced.
Your Bracken Ridge Shawl is now complete—a cozy, elegant wrap that showcases your knitting skills and the beauty of simple, textured stitches. Enjoy wearing it draped over your shoulders or as a stylish accent to any outfit.
