The Ember Glow Triangle Shawl: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Textured, Gradient Wrap
Wrap Yourself in Autumn: The Ember Glow Triangle Shawl
There's nothing quite like wrapping yourself in a handmade shawl that captures the essence of a season. The Ember Glow Triangle Shawl is designed to do just that—it’s a cozy, textured wrap that transitions from deep burgundy to golden amber, mimicking the colors of falling leaves. This free knitting pattern uses a unique slipped-stitch technique to create raised vertical columns, giving the fabric a woven, substantial feel. Perfect for intermediate knitters, this shawl is a rewarding project that results in a stunning, statement accessory you’ll reach for all autumn long.
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the following supplies to ensure a smooth knitting experience.
- Yarn: Worsted weight yarn in two colors:
- Color A (deep burgundy): 350 yards (e.g., Malabrigo Rios in 'Burgundy')
- Color B (golden amber): 350 yards (e.g., Malabrigo Rios in 'Sunset')
- Needle: US size 8 (5.0 mm) circular knitting needle, 32 inches or longer (to accommodate the growing number of stitches)
- Notions: Stitch markers (optional, for marking center stitch), tapestry needle for weaving in ends, blocking pins and mats
- Gauge: 18 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches in slipped stitch pattern (blocked). Adjust needle size if needed to match gauge.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This shawl is worked from the top center down, increasing at the center and both edges. The slipped stitches are worked with yarn held in front (wyif) unless otherwise specified. Follow the pattern carefully, and you’ll see the texture build beautifully.
Abbreviations
- CO: cast on
- K: knit
- P: purl
- Sl: slip stitch purlwise (as if to purl)
- Wyif: with yarn in front (hold yarn to the front of the work when slipping)
- Yo: yarn over
- K2tog: knit two together
- RS: right side
- WS: wrong side
Getting Started
With Color A, CO 3 stitches.
Foundation Rows
Row 1 (RS): K1, yo, k1, yo, k1 — you now have 5 stitches.
Row 2 (WS): K1, p1, k1, p1, k1 — 5 stitches.
Establishing the Pattern
Row 3 (RS): K1, yo, k1, yo, sl1 wyif, k1, yo, k1, yo, k1 — 9 stitches.
Row 4 (WS): K1, p1, k1, p1, sl1 wyif, p1, k1, p1, k1 — 9 stitches.
Row 5 (RS): K1, yo, k1, yo, k2, sl1 wyif, k2, yo, k1, yo, k1 — 13 stitches.
Row 6 (WS): K1, p1, k1, p1, k2, sl1 wyif, k2, p1, k1, p1, k1 — 13 stitches.
Row 7 (RS): K1, yo, k1, yo, k3, sl1 wyif, k3, yo, k1, yo, k1 — 17 stitches.
Row 8 (WS): K1, p1, k1, p1, k3, sl1 wyif, k3, p1, k1, p1, k1 — 17 stitches.
Continuing the Pattern
Repeat Rows 5-8 until the shawl measures approximately 24 inches from the cast-on edge, ending with a WS row. Each repeat of Rows 5-8 increases 4 stitches on the RS rows (one yo at each edge and one yo on each side of the center slipped stitch). The slipped stitch column will shift outward as the shawl grows, creating the textured vertical lines.
Color Transition
At the beginning of the next RS row, switch to Color B. Continue in the established pattern (Rows 5-8), carrying Color A up the side of the work (do not cut the yarn). Work 4 rows with Color B, then switch back to Color A for 4 rows. Repeat this stripe sequence (4 rows Color B, 4 rows Color A) until the shawl measures 30 inches from the cast-on edge, ending with a WS row in Color B.
Final Section and Bind Off
With Color B, work 4 more rows in pattern (Rows 5-8 once more). Then bind off loosely on the RS as follows: K1, *k1, pass the first stitch over the second, repeat from * until one stitch remains. Cut the yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail, and pull through the last stitch to secure.
Finishing
Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle, being careful to secure the yarn tails on the wrong side. Block the shawl to shape: soak in lukewarm water with a gentle wool wash, gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring), and lay flat on blocking mats. Pin the points of the shawl to open up the lace edges and allow the slipped stitches to relax. Let dry completely before unpinning.
Your Ember Glow Triangle Shawl is now ready to wear! The rich gradient and textured columns will make it a cherished piece in your wardrobe, perfect for cozy evenings or as a thoughtful handmade gift.
