The Ember & Ash Wrap: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Textured, Color-Blocked Shawl

Wrap Yourself in Autumn: The Ember & Ash Knitted Shawl

There's nothing quite like wrapping yourself in a cozy shawl that captures the essence of fall. The Ember & Ash Wrap is a stunning, textured shawl that combines rich burnt orange and deep charcoal stripes to create a modern, timeless accessory. Using a unique slipped-stitch pattern, this shawl produces a woven, heathered effect that's both dense and warm—perfect for crisp autumn days. Whether you're a seasoned knitter or a confident beginner looking for a rewarding project, this free pattern will guide you through creating a beautiful, color-blocked wrap you'll treasure for seasons to come.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies to ensure a smooth knitting experience:

• Yarn: Worsted weight yarn (Category 4). Shown in Lion Brand Wool-Ease in 'Pumpkin' (Color A, 2 skeins) and 'Charcoal' (Color B, 2 skeins). Approximately 600 yards total.
• Needles: US Size 8 (5.0 mm) knitting needles, or size needed to obtain gauge.
• Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving ends.
• Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in Stockinette stitch, after blocking. Achieving correct gauge is important for the final size and drape.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Pattern Notes

The shawl is worked flat from the top center point down to the bottom edge. The slipped-stitch pattern creates a dense, warm fabric. Always slip stitches purlwise with yarn in back (wyib) unless otherwise stated. The shawl will have a series of color blocks; you can change colors every 2 repeats (16 rows) or as desired for your own custom look.

Cast On & Foundation Rows

Cast On: With Color A, cast on 3 stitches.

Row 1 (WS): Knit all stitches.

Row 2 (RS): K1, yo, k1, yo, k1. (5 stitches)

Row 3 (WS): Knit all stitches.

Row 4 (RS): K1, yo, k1, yo, k1, yo, k1, yo, k1. (9 stitches)

Row 5 (WS): Knit all stitches.

Begin Slipped Stitch Pattern

Now you'll start the textured slipped-stitch pattern that gives this shawl its beautiful woven look. The pattern increases 2 stitches every right-side row (one at each edge) while creating the color-blocked stripes.

Row 6 (RS): With Color A, k1, yo, *k1, sl1 wyib, repeat from * to last 2 stitches, k1, yo, k1. (11 stitches)

Row 7 (WS): With Color A, k1, *sl1 wyif, k1, repeat from * to last stitch, k1.

Row 8 (RS): With Color B, k1, yo, *sl1 wyib, k1, repeat from * to last 2 stitches, sl1 wyib, yo, k1. (13 stitches)

Row 9 (WS): With Color B, k1, *k1, sl1 wyif, repeat from * to last 2 stitches, k2.

Row 10 (RS): With Color A, k1, yo, *k1, sl1 wyib, repeat from * to last 2 stitches, k1, yo, k1. (15 stitches)

Row 11 (WS): With Color A, k1, *sl1 wyif, k1, repeat from * to last stitch, k1.

Row 12 (RS): With Color B, k1, yo, *sl1 wyib, k1, repeat from * to last 2 stitches, sl1 wyib, yo, k1. (17 stitches)

Row 13 (WS): With Color B, k1, *k1, sl1 wyif, repeat from * to last 2 stitches, k2.

Repeat the Pattern

Repeat Rows 6-13 until the shawl measures approximately 60 inches from the cast-on point to the bottom edge, ending with a Row 11 or Row 13 (WS row). The shawl will have a series of color blocks. You can change colors every 2 repeats (16 rows) or as desired to create your own stripe sequence.

Final Section (Optional Border)

With Color A, knit 4 rows (garter stitch) across all stitches. Bind off loosely knitwise. This creates a clean, finished edge that complements the textured body.

Finishing

Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle. Block the shawl gently to open up the stitch pattern and even out the edges. To block, soak the shawl in lukewarm water, gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring), lay flat on a towel, and shape to desired dimensions. Allow to dry completely.

Your Ember & Ash Wrap is now complete! Enjoy the cozy warmth and beautiful texture of this handmade shawl, perfect for layering over sweaters or draping around your shoulders on cool autumn evenings.