The Trickster

The Trickster Crescent Shawl by Nim Teasdale

What is Being Made

The Trickster is a crescent-shaped shawl designed by independent knit designer Nim Teasdale. This intermediate-level knitting project combines decorative cable work, slipped stitch scrollwork, and lace edging to create a sophisticated accessory that appears far more complex than its construction actually is. The finished shawl measures approximately 140x50cm (60x20 inches) after blocking, though dimensions may increase slightly when worked with heavier yarns.

Design Features and Inspiration

The shawl draws thematic inspiration from Norse mythology, specifically referencing Loki the Trickster and his dual nature as both a trickster figure and fire god. This mythological connection informs the design's clever construction details. The pattern incorporates engaging visual elements through its combination of cable work and slipped stitch scrollwork, creating textural interest across the garment.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Cable work: Tricky cable patterns form the primary decorative element over a garter stitch base
• Slipped stitch scrollwork: Creates additional textural detail and visual movement
• Lace edging: Two distinct lace borders frame the shawl
• Garter stitch base: Provides a stable foundation for the more complex stitch patterns
• Striped construction: The shawl features striped sections throughout
• Two-directional knitting: Can be worked from both ends using a gradient cake or two contrasting yarns

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Trickster incorporates specialized stitch patterns adapted from Naomi Parkhurst's secret code stitch collection. Two primary lace patterns are featured: Cunning and Spark, both of which reference the trickster theme. These lace patterns are based on traditional fingering to DK weight yarn construction, allowing for flexibility in needle sizing based on personal preference and yarn choice.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Trickster requires approximately 450-600 meters (490-559 yards) of 4-ply weight yarn, depending on desired finished dimensions. The pictured sample was worked using 360 meters (395 yards) of Bilum Muli yarn combined with 85 meters (95 yards) of Wollmeise Pure, demonstrating the pattern's suitability for two-yarn colorwork approaches. Single gradient cakes can also be used as an alternative construction method.

Needles and Gauge

The sample shawl was knitted on 3.5mm (US size 4) needles. Needle sizing should be adjusted to suit your chosen yarn weight and personal preference, as the pattern accommodates fingering through DK weight yarns with flexibility in needle selection.

Construction Tips

The pattern includes helpful guidance for knitters, recommending that stitch markers be placed before kyoks (a knitting abbreviation) to help track increases and maintain pattern accuracy throughout the project. These design quirks are intentionally incorporated to make the knitting process easier while maintaining the sophisticated appearance of the finished shawl.