I love traditional triangle shawls. I love that they have a dual nature; they are both contemporary and historical, functional but also a little frivolous, completely approachable while also a challenge.
Evangelina was inspired by a stitch I found in a vintage knitting and needlecraft book my mother-in-law gave me. She used the book herself for many years to crochet blankets for her sons and their cousins before handing it down to me. The stitch is a garter lace rib that is worked on both sides. The rhythmic pattern of k2togs and YOs creates thick and thin vertical columns that alternate with columns of eyelets radiating out from the center spine. The resulting fabric is lacy but sturdy and is very satisfying to knit.
The contrast border continues along the theme of duality. It is a very easy garter and eyelet pattern, providing a relief from the double-sided lace.
I used Cloud Gray for the body and Mushroom for the border.Using a contrast color allows for some interesting color mixing; the knitter can be playful and modern or pretty and traditional in their choices. It would also be beautiful knit in one color, what Kate calls a “subtle stunner”.
This shawl uses simple stitches to create a complex fabric that would look just as great with jeans and t-shirt as well as a pretty floral dress. I’m proud to say that my first shawl pattern falls in line with my long-held views about the dual nature of shawls.
What inspires you about shawls?
