16-09-2019

OK - no getting around it. While this pattern is lovely, chic, modern, versatile and popular - and while the pattern is very well written and clear - I am HATING knitting it. Lacework, even simple lace, is such a pain in the ass and there are LOTS of yarn overs in this pattern. Yes, it’s simple, but it’s also the kind of lace that takes total concentration because you make one slip up and you’ve got rows of problems on your hands. I prefer knits that are more meditative - even if more complicated. For those who love lacework knitting - have at it. I won’t be making this again. (Famous last words - see my second version…)

02-10-2019

I got into the swing approx 1/2 way through the project (no more errors were made) but the bias axis (where the round begins/ends and increases are made) is not as even as I would like. Won’t be noticeable when blocked and I knew I wouldn’t start this again if I ripped it out, so I’m not going to worry about it. Sometimes you have to work with your personality to get a finished product.

Pre-blocked Measurements

Neckline (top) - 5” x 2 = 10” circ
Neckline (meets lace) - 7” x 2 = 14”
Top of lace (meets neckline) 9.25” x 2 = 18.5”
Base of shawl (bind off) - 26.75” x 2 = 53.5”
Depth of cowl from centre neck to base - 9.5”

Depending on how the lace relaxes when washed, you may need to do some significant pin blocking to achieve pattern measurements. But probably, it’ll relax quite a bit since you’re using a superwash with nylon and lace is always a mess before it touches water.

02-10-2019

Were I to make this again, I suspect it would be fairly straight forward (lace-wise) cuz I’ve now done the lace row 42 times (to make the smallest size). If I wear this one a lot - I could see myself making another either for me or as a gift for someone else, but it’s unlikely to happen soon…

Fact is, you have to pay attention and look at the knitting at all times, on the YO row - it may not be complicated but it takes the kind of boring focus that gets old.

05-10-2019

As I said on Insta - it’s too bad I didn’t enjoy the knit because the end result is fantastic. I can see why this would work on many as a chic and versatile shawl through four seasons.