Sakura by Jem Arrowsmith

Sakura

Knitting
April 2026
Fingering (14 wpi) ?
22 stitches and 33 rows = 4 inches
in Stockinette
US 5 - 3.75 mm
427 - 437 yards (390 - 400 m)
One Size
English
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About this Pattern

Introducing the Sakura Shawl. Sakura is the Japanese word for cherry blossoms, the beautiful pink flowers of the cherry tree. This shawl is delicate and elegant and features a simple 4-row lace repeat pattern throughout, which quickly becomes intuitive.

The stitch pattern creates columns of cascading lace, reminiscent of falling cherry blossom petals, framed by pillars of reverse stockinette stitch that adds texture and really makes the lace stand out. For ultimate luxury and drape, the pattern works beautifully with a yarn that contains a touch of silk, much like the delicate softness of sakura petals.

For the best effect, a solid or semi-tonal colour showcases the lace pattern. The shawl is finished with a deep border of garter stitch, which you can continue knitting until you run out of yarn making it a perfect choice for a one-off skein of luxury yarn.

Pattern Notes

Stitches Used – Sl1 wyif, knit, purl, kfb, yo, k2tog, ssk, sl2tog-k1-p2sso

Sizes – One size

Measurements – The finished, blocked item has a wingspan of 70” (178cm) and a depth of 18” (45.5cm)

Materials

• 437-464yd / 400-425m, 3.5 oz / 100g 4 ply, sock or fingering weight yarn. The yarn used in the pattern pictures is Under the Olive Tree Knits Luxury 4ply Yarn, 50% superwash merino / 50% silk in the Blush colourway
• US size 5 (3.75mm) 32” (80cm) circular needle
• 13 stitch markers (optional for marking off the lace repeats)
• 1 tapestry needle for weaving in the ends

Gauge: 22 stitches and 33 rows to 4” (10cm) in stockinette stitch after blocking

The pattern has been tech edited and test knitted prior to publication.

Pattern Testimonials

“The shape of this pretty shawl with the lace detailing makes this a very versatile addition to my ever growing collection of accessories. Jem’s attention to detail in her pattern instructions makes this an easy knit for the experienced knitter and would give a confident beginner a great sense of satisfaction. Row by row, this becomes an intuitive knit. Using stitch counters at every lace repeat is helpful to keep track of the number of stitches. I can highly recommend this latest pattern from Jem” - Angela

“This is a very pretty and easy repeating lace pattern which becomes intuitive quickly making this a relaxing project. Written clearly, allowing increasing the size to be straightforward. I am confident that even a beginner lace knitter could achieve this” - Kerry

“I completed extra lace repeats and many more garter stitch border rows to increase the overall size of my shawl” - Kerry

“Another delightful pattern from Jem. This was a quick knit with an engaging lace pattern which would be suitable for anyone looking to try a lace shawl. The option of following either written instructions or a chart makes this accessible to all knitters. The row-by-row stitch count is excellent, providing the reassurance that everything is on track. Highly recommend this pattern!” - Fiona

“Lovely lace pattern and really easy to memorise, thoroughly enjoyed testing this pattern and will make it again” – Debbie

“A fun and engaging pattern that you’ll be excited to get home and work on every day; added bonus is the beautiful accessory you have at the end” - Megan