How to Knit a Square Shawl: A Step-by-Step Guide

Shawl Shapes Series
Written By Francoise Danoy
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Welcome to my new shawl construction series! I created this series for new and experienced knitters alike. Here, you'll break down the art and science behind different shawl shapes. Each post focuses on how to create mini prototypes.

We'll look at how shawl shapes are built. Increases and decreases play a big role in their structure. By understanding these basics, you'll feel more confident experimenting within the confines of the shapes.

This series is hands-on. I encourage you to knit mini prototypes for each shape. This gives you practical experience with key techniques. Whether you're trying new ideas or enjoying the process, these projects make concepts come alive.

What You’ll Need to Knit-Along

To follow along with the series, gather the following materials:

  • Yarn: One skein of DK weight yarn.

  • Needles: A pair of US 7 knitting needles.

  • Stitch Markers: At least four to mark key points in your shawl.

So, grab your needles and yarn. Let's demystify shawl construction together, one shape at a time!

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The Square Shawl: Seamless Geometry in the Round

Ready to explore a new dimension in shawl knitting? The square shawl offers a modern, geometric alternative to classic triangular shapes, all worked seamlessly from the center out. While this construction requires more yarn than flat-knit shawls due to its rapid growth (it grows by 8 stitches every other round, it rewards you with elegant symmetry and versatile design possibilities.

Understanding the Structure

At its heart, a square shawl is simply four triangles arranged in a circle. Tip for knitwear designers: this brilliant construction means that once you've charted one triangular segment, you've effectively designed the entire shawl. The square grows from the center outward, with each of the four sides expanding simultaneously through the increases at the corners.

This versatile construction isn't just for shawls—you can use the same technique to create top-down hats. Simply work increases until you reach the desired circumference, then continue knitting straight for the body.

Why Knit a Square Shawl?

  • Design Efficiency: One triangular pattern creates the entire shawl

  • Modern Aesthetic: Clean, geometric lines offer a contemporary look

  • Versatile Wearability: The square shape drapes beautifully as a shawl or can be folded as a scarf

  • Skill Building: Perfect practice for working with multiple markers and understanding radial construction

This shape is particularly stunning when worked in gradient yarns or with contrasting colors to highlight its geometric structure. The result is a sophisticated, modern wrap that showcases the beautiful mathematics of knitting.

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Knitting Your Square Shawl

Set-Up:

  • Cast on 8 stitches and join in the round, being careful not to twist.

  • Round 1: (Place marker, k1, place marker, yo, k1, yo) 4 times around. (16 stitches, 8 markers total)

Shape the Square:

  • Round 2: Knit all stitches.

  • Round 3: (Slip marker, k1, slip marker, yo, knit to next marker, yo) 4 times around. (8 stitches increased)

  • Round 4: Knit all stitches.

Repeat Rounds 3 and 4 until your shawl reaches the desired size. Bind off.

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Take Your Shawl Knitting to the Next Level with Forming Shawls and Their Charts!

Have you ever admired the intricate beauty of shawl designs but felt intimidated by their construction? This e-book is your ultimate guide to mastering shawl design and charting techniques.

You’ll Discover 15 Unique Shawl Shapes

  • 10 knit flat

  • 5 knit in the round

Each shape comes with detailed written instructions and charts to help you understand construction and design flow.

Skills You’ll Learn:

  • How to calculate stitch and row counts quickly

  • Adjusting garter tab cast-ons for your designs

  • Substituting increases to fit your project

  • Seamlessly working stitch patterns into shawl shapes

Bonus Resources:

  • Tips and Tricks: Expert advice to demystify shawl design

  • Video Tutorials: Step-by-step demonstrations of key techniques

Whether you’re a beginner ready to experiment or an experienced knitter looking to elevate your designs, Forming Shawls and Their Charts is the perfect tool to unlock endless creative possibilities in the world of shawls.

🎉 Download your copy today and start designing stunning shawls with confidence! 🎉

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Francoise Danoy
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How to Knit a Swirl Shawl: A Step-by-Step Guide