Patternum Novum: Rioja Shawlette

Several Christmases ago, my mother in law somehow got 'hold of my WEBS wishlist. I had been adding yarn to it over the past year, not thinking anyone would ever see it, but just keeping track of my needs and wants for myself. Anyway, Jane, who is perhaps the most thoughtful gift-giver I know (and I know some pretty thoughtful gift givers), found the wishlist and bought everything on it. Yep, everything. Included in the package were two skeins of very lovely Malabrigo Sock yarn (actually 4, and the blue ones became Indicum).

So, originally, that Malabrigo Sock was a vest. It was just ok. I liked the idea, but I was off on gauge, so I stuck it in a pile to be dealt with later. (Like, years later.) And, finally, recently, it was time to rip. And once that Malabrigo Sock was out of that vest and into my hands, I couldn't stop thinking about it. So squishy, so pretty...it took one swatch and I knew what I wanted to do. And I like it so much better than that vest.

Rioja - $5 via Ravelry (no account required)

Rioja is a semi-circular shawlette with lots of texture and a bit of a Spanish feel.  Textured bands alternate between squishy Garter Stitch and very simple lace, the last of which allows the picot-encrusted edge to flutter out in just the right way.

Rioja takes only one skein of sock yarn, but detailed instructions have been provided in the pattern for optional sections should you have more yarn and wish to make the shawl larger.

My favorite way to wear Rioja is above, wrapped around my neck like a scarf. The semi-circular shape drapes nicely, and all that texture is right there on display.

If you are new to shawl knitting, this is a perfect first project -- there are no fancy techniques or complex stitch patterns here. But there is certainly enough going on to be a fun knit for more advanced knitters as well.

The specs...

Size: 43" / 109 cm along top edge, 19" / 48.5 cm height at center

Yarn: Malabrigo Yarn Sock (100% Merino; 440 yds/402 m per 100g); 1 skein in color 811 Eggplant

Needles: US 6 (4 mm) circular needle, at least 24" / 60 cm long, or size needed to obtain gauge

Gauge: 19 sts & 28 rows = 4" / 10 cm in Garter Stitch

For more information about Rioja, you can check it out on Ravelry here.