The Latin phrase Civitas Spiralis means Community Spiral (see note). This speaks to an aspect of my fiber community that never fails to bring joy - the way it always circles and spirals outward. We grow. We interweave. We celebrate, and we support. We learn from each other. We sit and stitch and share. We lift each other up.

The Civitas Spiralis was designed to express a spiral. It can be flexible with yarn weights and colorways. It holds interest, but is simple enough for a raucous sit & stitch. Cast on at the narrow end and knit until you are done, until the yarn runs out, or the length is just right. Civitas Spiralis is designed for DK or Fingering weight yarns, but can play well with other weights as well. Try self-striping, variegated, solid, tonal, or your own handspun. Wrap it once around to allow the ends to dangle, or spiral it around your neck to keep out the chill. This simple pattern welcomes your fiber exploration - much as my fiber community does for me and I hope does the same for you.

Note: The word civitas has multiple meanings when translated into English. City is the most common, but other translations include community, fellowship, citizens, citizenship, citizens rights, and freedom. Further, civitas and civility both stem from the root civis, meaning citizen. In the current times, the linkages of all those words is certainly something to think about.

Supplies:
DK weight: 100 grams or more. Fingering weight: 60-100 grams.
Shown in Always Be Kind Yarn Merino DK (variegated) in “Deep in Wine Country” and Self-Patterning Sock (striped) “Wine Country, and my personal handspun DK-Worsted (green).
DK: US6 (4 mm) with a 24” cable. Fingering: US3 (3.25 mm) with a 24” cable.
Tapestry Needle

Gauge:
DK weight: approximately 18 sts and 40 rows (20 garter ridges) to 4”x4” (10x10cm) on a US6 (4mm) needle.
Fingering weight: approximately 20 sts and 56 rows (28 garter ridges) to 4”x4” (10x10 cm) on a US3 (3.25 mm) needle.

This shawlette works well in all weights of yarn and is particularly good at showing off a skein of handspun. It is an excellent place to try out combinations of yarn and needles to see what you like. The exact gauge is not as important as a fabric with drape that you like and is not too stiff.