Product Description
SOAR is the first in a planned series of "anatomically inspired" pieces: shawls and stoles with designs drawn from the real anatomies of flying creatures in the natural world, but wearable and attractive for humans.
This shawl was inspired by birds' wings, with symmetrical, contoured feathers of differing sizes and shapes. It is not an exact anatomical reproduction of any one species (please do no use this pattern for veterinary purposes, creation of personal flight devices, etc etc) but mirrors the general appearance of the wing structures of flying birds.
SOAR is available in two sizes - fledgling and adult - with slightly different shapes. The "fledgling" size is a smaller, true triangular shawl, while the larger "adult" size is a broader, almost-crescent triangle using some different shaping techniques, giving it a wider, more open wingspan.
Both sizes were formulated for the same approximate gauge - while gauge isn't critical, I recommend a sport or heavier weight for st
Soar Knitted Shawl by Toby MacNutt
What is Being Made
Soar is a knitted shawl inspired by the anatomical structures and flight mechanics of birds. The design features symmetrical, contoured feather-like sections of differing sizes and shapes that mirror the general appearance of bird wing structures. Available in two sizes—fledgling (smaller, triangular shawl) and adult—the Soar shawl captures the elegant drape and movement associated with avian flight, making it an attractive accessory with organic, nature-inspired styling.
Techniques Used
This intermediate-level knitting project employs several key techniques to achieve its feathered aesthetic:
- Shaped Stockinette Stitch: Each feather is constructed using shaped stockinette stitch sections, creating defined, dimensional feather forms
- Short-Row Shaping: The extensions of the primary flight feathers at the tip of each wing are crafted using short-row shaping during the edging and bind-off process, allowing the yarn to remain unbroken throughout construction
- Ratchet Star Increases: Larger feathers incorporate a ratchet of star increases, adding visual texture and graduated sizing to mirror natural feather variation
- Edging and Bind-Off: Careful finishing techniques ensure clean edges that enhance the feather silhouettes
Stitches Used
The pattern primarily utilizes:
- Stockinette Stitch: The foundational stitch creating smooth, flat feather surfaces
- Yarn Overs: Used in star increase sequences to create decorative texture on larger feathers
- Knit and Purl Combinations: Short-row shaping employs standard knit and purl stitches to build dimensional structure
Materials
This project is worked in sport-weight yarn, a lightweight option that creates drape and fluidity ideal for shawl construction. The pattern is compatible with standard knitting needles appropriate for sport-weight yarn. The downloadable PDF format provides complete instructions for both size options, allowing knitters to select their preferred finished dimensions while maintaining the design's elegant proportions and feathered appearance.
Design Notes
The Soar shawl is not an exact anatomical reproduction of any specific bird species, but rather a creative interpretation inspired by general bird wing structures and flight mechanics. The design celebrates the visual and structural qualities of feathers—their symmetry, graduated sizing, and graceful form—making it suitable for those seeking a nature-inspired knitting project rather than a scientifically precise model.
Specifications
| Brand: | Independent Designer |
| Yarn Weight: | Sport |
| Designer: | Toby MacNutt |
| Craft: | Knitting |
| Format: | Downloadable PDF |
| Languages: | English |
| Number of Patterns: | 1 |
| Skill Level: | Intermediate |
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your experience.