The Akos Sideways Shawl: A Free Knitting Pattern for an Asymmetrical Lace Wrap

Drape yourself in the ethereal beauty of the Akos Sideways Shawl, a modern knit that flows diagonally with delicate lace and garter ridges. This free pattern offers a meditative, architectural knitting experience that yields a uniquely flattering, crescent-shaped wrap. Knitted sideways from one tip to the opposite edge, this shawl is perfect for knitters looking to expand their skills while creating a stunning, wearable piece of art.

Whether you're a seasoned knitter or an ambitious beginner ready for a rewarding challenge, the Akos Shawl's rhythmic increases and decreases, paired with a repeating lace panel, make it an engaging and satisfying project. The result is an airy, elegant wrap that drapes beautifully over your shoulders, adding a touch of handmade luxury to any outfit.

Materials Needed

Before you begin your knitting journey, gather the following materials to ensure a smooth and enjoyable crafting experience:

• Yarn: Fingering weight yarn (approximately 400-450 yards). A soft merino/silk blend is highly recommended for its drape and stitch definition. The sample shown uses a gradient yarn in dusty rose, warm blush, and cream for a stunning color transition.
• Needle: US 6 (4.0 mm) 32-inch circular knitting needle (or size needed to obtain gauge). The circular needle is essential to accommodate the growing number of stitches.
• Gauge: 20 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch, after blocking. Note: Gauge is important for achieving the correct size and drape, but this shawl is forgiving—relax and enjoy the process!
• Other Tools: Stitch markers (at least 2), tapestry needle for weaving in ends, blocking mats and pins for the finishing touches.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This shawl is knitted sideways from one tip to the opposite edge, with increases and decreases creating the asymmetric shape. The lace pattern is worked along one edge. Follow these detailed instructions carefully, and you'll be amazed at what you create.

Abbreviations

• k = knit
• p = purl
• yo = yarn over
• k2tog = knit two together (right-leaning decrease)
• ssk = slip, slip, knit (slip two stitches knitwise one at a time, then knit them together through back loops – left-leaning decrease)
• pm = place marker
• sm = slip marker
• RS = right side
• WS = wrong side

Special Stitch: Lace Panel (Worked over 8 stitches)

This 8-stitch panel creates the delicate eyelet diamonds along the edge. Repeat these 4 rows for the duration of the pattern.

• Row 1 (RS): k2, yo, ssk, k2tog, yo, k2
• Row 2 (WS): purl all 8 stitches
• Row 3 (RS): k1, yo, ssk, k2tog, yo, k1 (Count carefully: k1 (1), yo (2), ssk (3-4), k2tog (5-6), yo (7), k1 (8) – yes, 8 stitches)
• Row 4 (WS): purl all 8 stitches

Cast On

Cast on 3 stitches loosely. This will be the starting tip of your shawl.

Increase Section (First Half)

In this section, you will increase 2 stitches every RS row to shape the growing edge of the shawl.

• Row 1 (RS): k1, yo, k1, yo, k1 (5 stitches)
• Row 2 (WS): purl all stitches.
• Row 3 (RS): k1, yo, k2, yo, k1 (7 stitches)
• Row 4 (WS): purl all stitches.
• Continue in this manner: Increase 2 stitches every RS row by working k1, yo, knit to last stitch, yo, k1 until you have 51 stitches on the needle. End with a WS row.

Begin Lace Edge

Now you'll introduce the lace panel. The shawl is shaped by increasing on the left edge only, while the lace panel is worked on the right edge. Place a marker to separate the lace panel from the main body.

• Setup Row (RS): k1, yo, k40, pm, work Lace Panel Row 1 over next 8 stitches, k1 (now 53 stitches – the increase is only on the left edge)
• Row 1 (RS): k1, yo, knit to 8 stitches before marker, sm, work Lace Panel Row 1 over next 8 stitches, k1 (increase made on left edge)
• Row 2 (WS): k1, purl to marker, sm, work Lace Panel Row 2 over next 8 stitches, k1
• Repeat these two rows: Continue working the lace panel rows in sequence (Rows 1-4), and continuing to increase on the left edge every RS row, until you have 101 stitches on the needle. End with a WS row.

Decrease Section (Second Half)

Now you'll begin decreasing on the left edge to mirror the increases, creating the asymmetric crescent shape.

• Row 1 (RS): k1, ssk, knit to marker, sm, work Lace Panel Row 1 over next 8 stitches, k1 (decrease made on left edge)
• Row 2 (WS): k1, purl to marker, sm, work Lace Panel Row 2 over next 8 stitches, k1
• Repeat these two rows: Continue the lace panel sequence, and decreasing on the left edge every RS row, until you have 3 stitches left on the needle. End with a WS row.

Final Decrease

Finish off the tip of the shawl with these final decreases.

• Next RS row: k1, ssk (2 stitches)
• Next WS row: purl 2
• Next RS row: k2tog (1 stitch)
• Finish: Cut yarn, pull through last stitch, and weave in ends.

Blocking: The Final Magic Touch

Blocking is essential to achieve the beautiful drape and lace definition of the Akos Shawl. Don't skip this step!

1. Soak the shawl in lukewarm water with a gentle wool wash for 20 minutes.
2. Gently squeeze out excess water (do not wring or twist).
3. Lay flat on a blocking mat, pinning out the lace edge to open up the pattern and reveal the eyelet diamonds.
4. Allow to dry completely. This transforms your knitting into a beautifully draped, professional-looking shawl.

Once dry, your Akos Sideways Shawl is ready to wear. Drape it over your shoulders for a cozy evening, or style it as an elegant accessory for a special occasion. The asymmetric shape and delicate lace make it a truly unique addition to any wardrobe. Happy knitting!