As some of you already know, I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder in the beginning of 2020. While I’ve struggled with anxiety and depression for most of my life, I definitely hit rock bottom with this new diagnosis. My mental health was in shambles, and it became my number one priority to heal as much as possible. I started taking new medication and going to therapy, both of which helped tremendously, and I slowly began to improve. Fast forward to 2021 and you will see that I have become happier, healthier, and more whole than I have ever been in my life. :)

It may sound funny to some, but a large part of my recovery was based on mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and knitting. Fiber arts have been a huge comfort to me ever since I taught myself those first few crochet stitches when I was a teenager, and it became a cornerstone in my self care when I was really struggling. This pattern was designed to be a meditative, relaxing project, perfect for those times when you need to step back, take a deep breath, and just be. The soothing, repetitive motions of knitting garter stitch with an eyelet edging are sure to bring you peace if you let them.

The wearability of this piece is astounding, as it’s a large triangle shape that you can wrap around your neck like a scarf, tie in the front or on the side, or fasten loosely with a shawl pin. Its simplicity makes it easy to style with any outfit, and it looks equally amazing on all genders! You could opt to work this design in multiple colors and make it a fade, or simply work it in a solid neutral color for a classic look. I chose to attach a tassel on each corner, but you could also add a fringe along the edge if you like, or just leave it plain. The possibilities are endless!

The yarn I used for this pattern is Stitch Please Worsted by Premier Yarns. I’ve tried so many wool yarns over the years, and they’re often scratchy and uncomfortable to wear. Not this one! It’s 100% wool, yet it feels soft and luxurious to the touch, and it comes in so many beautiful colors to choose from! The best part is that it’s extremely affordable to fit any budget. Give it a try, you’ll love it!

MATERIALS

Note: The cool thing about this pattern is that you can use whatever yarn and needle combo you like! Just make sure you have enough yardage to make the shawl long enough to wear (I’d say at least 2 or 3 skeins). The following materials list is for those who want to make a shawl exactly like mine.

• Approximately 440 yards (402 m) of worsted weight (4) yarn. I used exactly 2 skeins of Stitch Please Worsted in the color “On the Rocks.”

• US 8 (5mm) knitting needles. I do recommend using circular needles with a long cable, as these will be able to hold more stitches than straight needles.

• Common notions, such as stitch markers, measuring tape, yarn needle, and scissors.

MEASUREMENTS

Approximately 57” long and 23” wide at its widest point, not including tassels.

GAUGE

Note: As this pattern is extremely adjustable, gauge isn’t very important.

19 st x 26 rows = 4” in garter stitch after blocking.

DISCLAIMER

You are more than welcome to sell anything you make using this pattern; I just ask that you credit me as the designer. You may not claim this pattern as your own, and you may not sell or distribute its contents in any form. If you have any questions, you can reach me by email at thechesapeakeneedle@gmail.com.

SHARING

I hope you enjoy this knitting pattern! Also, I’d love to see your work! Tag me in your photos on Instagram using @thechesapeakeneedle, #thechesapeakeneedle, and #SelfCareShawl so that I can find you easily! I just might share your photos on my page. See you there!