Shadow patterns in mosaic colorwork knitting, as described by Barbara G. Walker, are “designs that consist of a black motif upside down, interlocking with and alternating with the same motif in white, right side up”. I don’t know about you, but that’s a description that’s hard to resist and I really wanted to see how such a pattern would play with short rows.

Because yes, short rows are essential when it comes to knitting Hats sideways and I’ve a thing for designing hats sideways. Although ‘Shadowed’ hasn’t resulted in an all-over continuous mosaic pattern because it can’t, the way the shadow pattern plays within the panel is fascinating, especially as it converges at the crown (the best bit!) and depending on your choice of yarn and colors, either part of the design could take the stage. Everyone will see something different in it and to me that’s rather special.

In the interests of what else mosaic plays well with short rows? My most recent collection, Convergence, is an exploration into the interplay of these methods and if you like ‘Shadowed’ you might enjoy those patterns, too.

Support
Do you need help with this pattern? We have a specific discussion thread in the Wormhead’s Hats group where you can ask any questions.

Yarn
Yarn A: 100 (114, 128, 142) yd/91 (104, 117, 130) m
Yarn B: 111 (127, 143, 159) yd/102 (116, 131, 145) m
45yd/41m for a 6x6in/15x15cm swatch in Garter St.
DK weight, plied yarn.

Needles & Notions
Pair 3.25mm/UK10/US3 straight needles or size needed to obtain gauge
3.5mm crochet hook
Approx. 2yd/2m waste yarn
Stitch marker as necessary
Tapestry needle

Sample details
Shown in Dragonfly Fibers Traveller DK in shades ‘District 12’ & ‘Peach Melba’ (280yd/256m per 4oz/114g; 100% Superwash Merino)

Shown in size 20in/50.75cm on model with 21in/53.25cm circumference head

Gauge
24 sts x 48 rows to 4in/10cm on 3.25mm needles over Garter St.
26 sts x 56 rows to 4in/10cm in Mosaic pattern

Sizes
To fit sizes: 18 (20, 22, 24) in/ 45.75 (50.75, 56, 61) cm
Finished sizes: 14 (16, 18, 20) in/ 35.5 (40.5, 45.75, 50.75) cm

Skills required
Knit & purl sts, slipped stitches, short rows, provisional cast-on, kitchener stitch

Pattern contents
Written & charted instructions; illustrated tutorials for Provisional Cast-on & Kitchener Stitch (Garter St.)

Note
Fit is determined by row gauge – if your gauge differs, simply work more or fewer panels to achieve the desired size. Alternatively, adjust your gauge with a different needle size.