This shawl is GIANT. As in, twice-my-arm-span-giant. If it hadn’t been a test knit, I definitely would have gotten rid of half of the repeats for a much more manageable size. However, despite the seemingly endless rows of garter stitch, the end result is so striking that I thought this project was absolutely worth it.

• 2 and 3/4 skein of Cascade Yarns 220 Superwash – a light weight (3) yarn (colour A: Aporto)
• 2 and 3/4 skein of Cascade Yarns 220 Superwash – a light weight (3) yarn (colour B: Frost Grey)
• Size 6 (4.00mm) knitting needles (I used Knitter’s Pride 100cm circulars)

Pattern by Max at Les Garçons

While this design certainly isn’t as intricate as some of Max’s other cowls or sweaters, I adored the simplicity of the contrasting colours and stripes. I defaulted to my favourite combination of blue and silver, but I’m sure braver souls will come up with even more stunning contrasts. I saw a picture posted by another test knitter where they did a gradient fade from a soft green to a rust orange, and I thought that was gorgeous.

The one downside to this shawl is that there is a very clear right and wrong side, which never makes me happy, but I tell myself that the wrong side would never be noticeable as it was being worn. There was also a lot of yarn ends, but with the Weavin’ Stephen technique, that was minimized. I’m hoping that they will stay snug, but we’ll find out as this shawl gets worn! I’m torn between keeping it for myself, and saving it for an emergency Christmas gift, but we’ll see how the holidays play out.

I’ve always wondered if it would be worth investing in a shawl pin to help wear some of these larger pieces, as this one is so big that I don’t think looping it around my neck twice will do. There are some gorgeous pins at the local yarn shop, so maybe it’s time for me to watch some tutorials and figure out how fashion works.

Until next time, happy crafting!