Uddybende information
The Calamity Shawl by Mrs. FunnyValentine is a bold, dramatic and beautifully textured accessory inspired by the legendary Wild West figure Calamity Jane. Designed to celebrate courage, independence and creative fire, this shallow triangular shawl features rhythmic, expanding cables that mirror the untamed spirit behind its name. Soft, airy and fearless in its visual impact, the Calamity Shawl combines striking form with a comforting, wearable drape.
The shawl is knitted in Lang Yarns Suri Alpaca, a luxurious 100% alpaca yarn with an exceptionally soft halo. Each 25 g ball contains 100 m, giving a running length of 100 m per 25 g. The design requires 1200 m, equivalent to 12 balls of Suri Alpaca . The result is a lightweight yet warm fabric that highlights every cable twist.
Using 3.25 mm (US 3) needles, the shawl achieves a blocked gauge of 30 sts × 34 rows = 10 cm in the basic Calamity cable pattern . This fine gauge produces crisp cable definition while keeping the shawl airy and fluid.
After blocking, the finished measurements are:
– Bottom span: 200 cm
– Wing length: 108 cm
– Shawl depth (excl. fringe): 75 cm
Construction begins at the bottom point using a garter-tab cast-on. The triangular base is established through setup rows before the shawl expands outward in mirrored cable panels. Increases are worked consistently at the edges and center, creating a sculpted, harmonious cable landscape across the fabric. The shawl is worked flat throughout.
The edging may be finished in two ways:
Dramatic fringe, as shown in the sample, worked directly from the live stitches for movement and texture.
A minimal I-cord bind-off for a clean, modern look, depending on personal preference.
The finished piece is featherlight, visually bold and irresistibly soft—perfect for wrapping around your shoulders on cool days or as a statement accessory over a simple outfit.
With its intuitive cable rhythm and clear charted + written instructions, the Calamity Shawl is suitable for intermediate knitters who enjoy structured stitch patterns with striking visual payoff. This design embodies resilience, individuality and artistic expression—just like the woman who inspired it.
