Unlock a New Shape: The Hexagon Shawl

Shawl Shapes Series
Written By Francoise Danoy
Featured

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!

Featured
Featured

The Hexagon Shawl: Knit a Geometric Gem in the Round

Welcome to the final—and wonderfully quirky—shape in our shawl construction series: the Hexagon Shawl. This unique, modular shape is a joy to knit, creating a stunning geometric piece that lays beautifully as a wrap or scarf. Its radial construction makes it a perfect shawl construction for gradient and self-striping yarns, as the color transitions flow seamlessly around its six symmetrical sections.

Construction at a Glance

This shawl is worked from the center out in the round. The magic lies in its six symmetrical points, each increased every other round, causing the shawl to expand rapidly into its distinctive hexagonal shape.

At its core, a hexagon shawl is simply six triangles arranged in a circle. This efficient design means the entire shawl is built from a single, repeating triangular section. The hexagon grows from the center outward, with each of the six points expanding simultaneously through paired yarn-over increases. Watching the hexagon emerge from your needles is a truly rewarding experience!

This construction is not just for shawls, it’s incredibly versatile. By stopping the increases early and knitting straight, you can create everything from slouchy hats and yoke-style tops to colorwork blankets. The hexagon is a foundational shape that opens a world of design possibilities.

Featured
Featured

Tips for a Perfect Hexagon

  • Managing Markers: With 12 markers, it can feel crowded at first. As the shawl grows, the sections will become more distinct and easier to manage.

  • Needle Strategy: Start on DPNs, but transition to a long (at least 32-inch) circular needle as soon as the stitches comfortably fit. This will prevent crowding and frustration.

  • Blocking is Everything: The true hexagonal shape is revealed in blocking. Soak your shawl and pin it out aggressively, focusing on creating six straight sides and six sharp points. Blocking wires are incredibly helpful for this.

  • Embrace the Ruffle: As the shawl grows very large, the edge may begin to ruffle naturally. This is a feature, not a bug! If you prefer a flat fabric, you can work a few rounds without increases to let the fabric catch up.

Knitting Your Hexagon Shawl

Set-Up:

  1. CO 6 sts. Join in the round, being careful not to twist.

  2. Rnd 1 (Initial Increase): (K1, yo) around. (12 sts)

  3. Rnd 2: Knit all stitches.

  4. Rnd 3 (Place Markers): (Pm, k1, pm, yo, k1, yo) around. (24 sts, 12 markers total)

    • You now have 6 distinct sections, each defined by a center "spine" stitch (the k1 between markers).

Shape the Hexagon:
5. Rnd 4: Knit all stitches.
6. Rnd 5 (Increase Rnd): (Sm, k1, sm, yo, knit to next marker, yo) around. (12 sts increased)
7. Rnd 6: Knit all stitches.

Repeat Rounds 5 and 6 until your shawl reaches the desired depth. Bind off very loosely using a stretchy method to maintain the flexible edge.

Featured
Featured
Featured
Featured

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! 🎉

Featured
Featured
Francoise Danoy
Next

Steppe Bandana Cowl