How to Knit the Bias Rectangular Shawl
The Bias Rectangular Shawl - Stepping Stone to Many Constructions
Knitting these shawls is a creative journey, far more intriguing than a plain, straight, rectangular shawl. They are perfect for large, wrap-around designs and serve as a springboard for exploring the myriad of constructions possible with shawl shapes. Let's delve into this tilted world together 🤓
Let’s start with the basic shape first. Do you recall the asymmetrical shawl construction? If not, this article is a great resource for a refresher (or to learn something new!). The bias rectangular shawl follows a similar pattern, offering a range of possibilities.
Understanding how the bias in knitting is shaped is key. These two shawls have one thing in common: each features a shaping row where a decrease and an increase are worked. These two stitches cancel each other out, keeping the stitch count constant. However, we lose a stitch and gain a new one in knitting. The decrease and increase shift the fabric to lean either right or left, creating unique and visually appealing designs.
Here are some examples of how bias rectangles can combine to add visual interest to everyday accessories like scarves, elevating them to a new level of style and elegance.
Right-learning bias shawl
Left-leaning bias shawl
Here are some examples of how bias rectangles can combine to add visual interest to everyday accessories like scarves, elevating them to a new level of style and elegance.
Taking it to the Next Level
With the basics out of the way, I’ll share an example of how I’ve used my knowledge of shawl construction to create short-sleeved and long-sleeved garments.
Short-Sleeve - The Wifty Top
Let's take a closer look at the 'Wifty top' (two rectangles seamed together). This project begins with a bottom-up triangle (increasing), and once the desired width at the top is reached, we change to biased rectangular shaping to maintain the stitch count. To complete the rectangle, you would work the opposite of what you did at the start: top-down decreases. This is a great example of how bias shaping can be used in garment construction.
Long-Sleeve - The Aumangea Pullover
The Aumangea pullover begins with a triangular shawl construction to establish the width of the pullover. Then, it switches to bias shaping (using both right and left-leaning constructions) to extend the length. The final decrease sections are completed separately.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Set-Up
Cast on the number of stitches you need. You determine this number based on how long you want the edge to be.
Working the Body of the Shawl
Right-Leaning Bias Shawl
Row 1 and all RS rows: Sl, k1, yo, k until last three sts, k2tog, k1.
Row 2 and all WS rows: Sl wyif, p all stitches.
Rep. rows 1 and 2 until you have reached your desired depth. BO.
Left-Leaning Bias Shawl
Row 1 and all RS rows: Sl, k2tog, k until last st, yo, k1.
Row 2 and all WS rows: Sl wyif, p all stitches.
Rep. rows 1 and 2 until you have reached your desired depth. BO.
