The West End Wrap

The West End Wrap by Robin Hunter

What is Being Made

The West End Wrap is an intermediate-level knitted shawl designed by Robin Hunter. This rectangular wrap measures 20 inches wide by 62 inches long after blocking, making it a versatile accessory suitable for layering or draping. The design features a distinctive slip stitch pattern that creates visual interest on both sides of the fabric, eliminating the need to worry about a "wrong side" when wearing or displaying the wrap.

Stitch Pattern and Construction

The wrap showcases a slip stitch pattern with a 12-row repeat that is easily memorized once learned. The designer notes that most rows in the repeat consist of straightforward knit and purl stitches, making the pattern more accessible than the row count might initially suggest. The slip stitches create a fabric texture that visually resembles crochet work, surprising knitters who are familiar with traditional knitted appearances. Hand-dyed yarns, such as Indigo Moon yarn mentioned in the pattern notes, particularly enhance this stitch pattern by allowing colors to peek through on the purl rows and within the slip stitch sections, creating depth and visual complexity.

Knitting Techniques Used

This intermediate project requires several fundamental knitting skills:

• Long tail cast on – the foundation method for beginning the wrap
• Knit and purl stitches – the primary stitch types forming the base of the pattern
• Slipping stitches – a key technique that creates the distinctive texture and visual effect
• Yarn overs – used to create openwork or shaping elements within the pattern
• Decreases – employed for shaping and stitch management throughout the design

Pattern Format and Materials

The West End Wrap pattern is provided in a downloadable PDF format and includes both charted and written versions of the stitch instructions, allowing knitters to follow whichever format they prefer. The pattern was originally designed and tested using 4-ply yarn weight, which provides the appropriate drape and stitch definition needed to showcase the slip stitch pattern effectively. The designer's notes reference successful completion in black alpaca yarn as well as hand-dyed options, indicating versatility in yarn fiber choices within the 4-ply weight category. Knitters will need appropriate needles sized for 4-ply yarn to achieve proper gauge and fabric characteristics.