The Gilded Wheat Harvest Pocket Shawl: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Textured, Asymmetrical Wrap with Cozy Pockets

Embrace Autumn with the Gilded Wheat Harvest Pocket Shawl

Embrace the golden hues of autumn with this richly textured, asymmetrical shawl featuring deep, cozy pockets and a stunning wheat stitch pattern. This free knitting pattern creates a luxurious, wearable hug that transitions effortlessly from crisp morning walks to cozy evenings by the fire. The combination of a warm harvest gold and deep chestnut brown creates a stunning visual contrast, while the wheat stitch adds a beautiful, tactile dimension. Perfect for intermediate knitters looking for a rewarding project, this shawl is as enjoyable to make as it is to wear.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following materials to ensure a smooth knitting experience.

• Yarn: Worsted weight (#4) yarn in two colors:
  • 600 yards of Main Color (MC) - a rich, golden harvest gold (e.g., Malabrigo Rios in 'Dijon')
  • 400 yards of Contrast Color (CC) - a deep, warm chestnut brown (e.g., Malabrigo Rios in 'Chestnut')
• Needles: US Size 8 (5.0 mm) circular knitting needles, 32-inch or longer cord, or size needed to obtain gauge.
• Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends and seaming pockets, stitch markers (optional), scissors.
• Gauge: 18 stitches and 24 rows = 4 inches in Wheat Stitch pattern (blocked). Always check your gauge for best results.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This shawl is worked from the top center point downwards, increasing on one side to create an asymmetrical triangle. The pockets are knit separately and seamed onto the shawl at the end. Follow these detailed instructions carefully.

Abbreviations

• CO: Cast on
• K: Knit
• P: Purl
• St(s): Stitch(es)
• Yo: Yarn over
• K2tog: Knit two stitches together
• Ssk: Slip, slip, knit (decrease)
• Sl1 wyif: Slip 1 stitch purlwise with yarn in front
• Sl1 wyib: Slip 1 stitch purlwise with yarn in back
• MC: Main Color (Gold)
• CC: Contrast Color (Chestnut)

Wheat Stitch Pattern (Multiple of 2 + 1)

This 4-row pattern creates the beautiful textured fabric. Repeat these rows as instructed.

• Row 1 (RS): With MC, K1, *yo, k2tog; repeat from * to end.
• Row 2 (WS): With MC, Purl all stitches.
• Row 3 (RS): With CC, K1, *ssk, yo; repeat from * to end.
• Row 4 (WS): With CC, Purl all stitches.

Shawl Body

Foundation:
With MC, CO 3 sts.
Row 1 (RS): K1, yo, k1, yo, k1. (5 sts)
Row 2 (WS): K1, purl to last st, k1.
Row 3: K1, yo, k1, yo, k1, yo, k1. (8 sts)
Row 4: K1, purl to last st, k1.
Row 5: K1, yo, k2, yo, k2, yo, k1. (11 sts)
Row 6: K1, purl to last st, k1.

Begin Wheat Stitch Pattern (while continuing increases):
Row 7 (RS - Increase Row): K1, yo, work Row 1 of Wheat Stitch across to last st, yo, k1. (13 sts)
Row 8 (WS): K1, work Row 2 of Wheat Stitch across to last st, k1.
Row 9 (RS - Increase Row): K1, yo, work Row 3 of Wheat Stitch across to last st, yo, k1. (15 sts)
Row 10 (WS): K1, work Row 4 of Wheat Stitch across to last st, k1.

Repeat Rows 7-10 until the shawl measures approximately 28 inches from the cast-on edge along the straight (non-increasing) side, ending after a WS row. You will have approximately 100-110 sts.

Final Section (Garter Stitch Border)

Switch to MC only.
Row 1 (RS): K1, yo, knit to last st, yo, k1.
Row 2 (WS): Knit all sts.
Repeat these 2 rows 5 more times (10 rows total).

Bind Off (Very Loosely): Knit 2, *pass first stitch over second, knit 1; repeat from * to end. Cut yarn and weave in ends.

Pockets (Make 2)

With MC, CO 30 sts.
Work in Wheat Stitch pattern (Rows 1-4) for 6 inches, ending after a WS row.
Switch to CC and work in Garter stitch (knit every row) for 1 inch.
Bind off loosely.

Finishing

Weave in Ends: Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle. Be sure to secure them well on the wrong side of the fabric.

Blocking: Block the shawl to shape, pinning out the points. Allow to dry completely. This step is crucial for opening up the wheat stitch pattern and achieving the correct dimensions.

Attaching Pockets

Lay the shawl flat with the RS facing up. Position one pocket on each side of the shawl, approximately 6 inches from the straight edge and 8 inches from the bind-off edge. The garter stitch border of the pocket should be at the top. Using MC and a tapestry needle, sew the sides and bottom of each pocket to the shawl using a mattress stitch, leaving the top open. Weave in remaining ends.

Your Gilded Wheat Harvest Pocket Shawl is now complete! Enjoy the cozy warmth and beautiful texture of your handmade creation.