Knitting Pattern: Seabird Shawlette

Knit for Wildlife uses knitting to bring wildlife stories into everyday life.

At the heart of Vega’s World Heritage story is the eider duck. Each spring, wild eiders return to the islands to nest. For generations, Vega’s bird tenders have prepared nesting places and protected the birds during the vulnerable breeding season.

After the ducklings leave, the down remaining in the nests is collected by hand. This extraordinary relationship between people and a wild bird has shaped life on the islands for centuries.

The Seabird Shawlette is part of the Vega Cohort, a collection of five knitting patterns exploring Vega World Heritage and the decline of seabirds through contemporary knitwear.

All patterns in the Vega Cohort are released as free downloads to encourage making, sharing and conversations about seabird conservation.

Knit for Wildlife is endorsed by the UN Ocean Decade for its contribution to ocean literacy through creative, community-based approaches.

NOTE

Your free pattern is yours to keep. just remember to download it within 7 days. Once the download link expires, you’ll need to place a new order to receive a new link.

First edition. This pattern has been test knitted by our Knitters in Residence. If you discover an error or anything that could be improved, please let us know at hello@knitforwildlife.org. Your feedback helps us make every pattern better.

© Knit for Wildlife

USAGE & RIGHTS

This pattern is released as open access for personal, non-commercial use. Sharing is encouraged when crediting Knit for Wildlife. Commercial use, resale or redistribution is not permitted.

About the Designer

Sydney O’Shaughnessy (USA) is a knitter and communications professional with a strong interest in the role of craft in community, connection and storytelling.

For the Knit for Wildlife residency, Sydney created the Seabird Shawlette. Its wing-like form and graphic lines draw on the shapes and colours of seabirds. Worn across the shoulders, the piece brings the bird’s form directly into the silhouette of the garment.