Perrine

Perrine Shawl by Laura Chau

What Is Being Made

Perrine is a textured triangular shawl designed by Laura Chau as a versatile accessory suitable for multiple seasons. The shawl features a distinctive clustered stitch pattern reminiscent of crocheted granny squares, making it visually interesting while remaining relatively straightforward to execute. Before blocking, the finished shawl measures approximately 50 inches by 25 inches (127 by 63 centimeters), and after blocking expands to 68 inches by 28 inches (172 by 71 centimeters). This size range makes Perrine ideal for scrunching under a winter coat for warmth or draping loosely over the shoulders during warmer weather.

Yarn and Materials

Perrine is designed to work beautifully with sock yarn scraps in multiple colors, making it an excellent project for stash busting. The pattern also accommodates that special fingering weight yarn you may have been saving for a special project. The shawl is worked on US 6 (4mm) circular needles measuring either 32 inches or 40 inches (80 or 100 centimeters) in length. A tapestry needle is required for finishing.

Techniques and Construction

This triangular shawl employs a bottom-up construction method, beginning from a single point and expanding outward. The shawl grows through double increases positioned at each end of every right-side row, creating the characteristic triangular shape. A key construction technique involves carrying yarn up the side of the work when alternating colors rather than cutting yarn between color changes. This method creates a neater finish and maintains continuity in the fabric. The beginning and end of each row are worked in Anemone Stitch, and knitters are advised to work as loosely as possible during these edge stitches to ensure the finished shawl edges will stretch properly during blocking.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern used throughout Perrine is Anemone Stitch, which creates the clustered texture that evokes the appearance of crocheted granny squares. This stitch pattern is easy to memorize, making it accessible for intermediate-level knitters who want a project that is engaging without being overly complex.

Gauge and Difficulty

The pattern specifies a gauge of 19.5 stitches and 22 rows over a 4-inch (10-centimeter) square when worked in Anemone Stitch and blocked. Perrine is rated as an intermediate-level project, suitable for knitters with some experience who are comfortable with basic shaping techniques and color work. Technical editing was provided by Alexandra Virgiel.