Half-note Symphony Shawl

HeartStrings knitting pattern #H72

This semi-circular lace shawl, in alternating wedges of 2 harmonious colors, features a fluted hem and scooped neckline turned back into an asymmetric collar. Purl lace short-row wedges, separated by spokes of garter stitch bands, gradually narrow as they encircle the shawl.

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Half-note Symphony Shawl is designed to be attractive on a range of sizes and body types. Because of the fluid, amorphous character of the purl lace, this "one size fits all" shawl can be further varied by the degree of tautness in the blocking process (from relaxed to extremely stretched).

Sizing: 32" - 42" length at front+collar edges depending on degree of blocking; 25" - 32" center back length as worn
Yarn: Lace or light fingering weight: 345 yards color A (light gray in model); 285 yards color B
Gauge: approximately 10 – 13 stitches and 14 – 16 rows = 4 inches over blocked lace stitch
Suggested needles: US 8 / 5 mm; larger size knitting needle for binding off
Notions: shawl closure of your choice (a decorative brass double point needle was used for the photographed model); stitch marker; small crochet hook or tapestry needle for finishing ends; blocking board and rust-proof blocking wires/pins
Stitches used: knit, purl 2 stitches together, yarn over, slip, cast on, bind off
Construction: worked flat in rows, one piece, no sewing or grafting
Stitch instructions: written
Skill level: easy; this would be a good entry-level project for an aspiring lace knitter, as well as something to interest more advanced knitters
Special techniques used and described:
yarn over between purled stitches
yarn over at beginning of row
I-cord edge
no-wrap short rows
changing colors with a slip stitch technique borrowed from tubular knitting

For detailed specifications, see sample cover page of the Half-note Symphony Shawl knitting pattern. Click picture to open document in another window. Requires Adobe Reader v7.0 or higher to view.

Also see Lace Scarves/Stoles, Faroese Shawls and Other Shawls in the Jackie E-S Design Collections.