The Blooming Stitch Shawl

Inspired by the peonies and lilies blooming in and around our southern township of Troy, South Carolina, the main stitch pattern is a version of the Blossom Stitch found in many Estonian lace patterns and is expanded and modified for presentation in this pattern. The shawl can be started with either Five or Seven leaves with instructions provided for both styles. Beginning with a provisional cast on, five or seven leaves are produced in this neck down pattern which lead into blooms that cascade and surround the shoulders and back. Increases at each side of this shawl produce a shallow yet elongated style in a semi-circular shape with a slight flare at the wingtips, scallop edging, somewhat crescent shaping and finished with a chain crochet bind off. Once blocked, the lace is pronounced and drapes well to produce a light and delicate shawl. Approximately 575 yards of lace weight yarn is needed for the Five Leaves style as written and is not intended for enlargement. 675 yards are needed for the Seven Leaves style as written and may be enlarged. Enlarging the Seven Leaves style will require additional yardage. This pattern requires no specific gauge but is intended to be knit loosely in either style. Instructions are given in both written and chart form with details on abbreviations and working the pattern to completion. Designer/Sample, Blocking notes and sample photos are included for greater detail. Every effort to produce a pattern free of errors has been made. The featured shawl is of “Honey”, 100% Claudia Hand-painted Silk, and was made by following the instructions for the Five Leaves/ Six Blooms Style. Available through Ravelry.com and Patternfish.com