Baktus with knitting needles: the small shawl for all seasons

If you love knitting and are looking for a simple yet rewarding project, a knitted baktus might be the perfect choice for you! Easy to make even for beginners, this versatile accessory is ideal for any season and makes a great gift idea.

What is a baktus and how does it differ from a shawl?

A baktus is a triangular scarf of Scandinavian origin, characterized by an elongated and tapered shape. Unlike a classic shawl, which often has a wider triangular or semi-circular shape, a baktus is narrower and longer, allowing it to be easily wrapped around the neck without being bulky. Its construction is generally very simple: you start with a few stitches and gradually increase until the middle of the work, then decrease symmetrically.

Why knit a baktus?

1. Perfect for all skill levels – If you're a beginner, a baktus is a great way to practice increases and decreases without worrying about complex patterns. If you're more experienced, you can customize it with decorative stitches, lace patterns, or contrasting borders.
2. Versatile and comfortable – You can make it with lighter yarns for spring and autumn or with warmer wools for winter. Additionally, thanks to its shape, it adapts well to different styles and can be worn in many ways.
3. Great gift idea – A handmade baktus is a special and unique gift, perfect for friends and family.
4. Perfect for using gradient or leftover yarns – If you have single skeins or gradient yarns, this project allows you to make the most of them without waste.

How to make it?

To create a knitted baktus, you'll need:

• Needles suitable for your chosen yarn (usually between 3.5 and 5 mm)
• Approximately 100-150 grams of yarn (wool, cotton, or blend)
• A wool needle for weaving in ends

The simplest method involves casting on a few stitches (e.g., 4), increasing by 1 stitch every 4 rows until you reach the desired length, then starting to decrease in the same way until you return to the initial number of stitches. This method is very useful for using up leftover yarn: simply weigh the already worked part and the ball of yarn to determine if you've reached the halfway point. I love accessories that allow me to use all the yarn I have. Those who are more experienced could start immediately with all the stitches needed for the length and, after 4 rows, begin to decrease, not using the traditional technique or with the short row technique, leaving the stitches on the needle on hold... Finally, picking up all the stitches to work a nice rounded border!

Customize your baktus!

If you want to make your baktus even more original, try adding:

• Contrasting borders with a different colored yarn
• Lace stitches for a lighter, more elegant effect
• Colored stripes for a lively and modern look
• Pompoms or fringes for a playful touch

Get started now!