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PURL Magazine, Issue 1, Cast On, Autumn 2026
> Classical


Classical
Inspired by the rich history of the Donegal yarn, Classical marries traditional texture and fibers with modern shapes, while using historical techniques to solve modern problems. Classical is a cowlette – a shawlette worked in the round – which preserves the elegant look of a shawl while allowing the wearer to engage in modern activities, like driving and bike riding, without having to be tied like a traditional shawl.
This marriage of modern and ancient is also portrayed in the design’s sharp angles that are juxtaposed with airy yarn overs and a sheer mohair panel. Throughout the cowlette, the delicate Donegal yarn is held together with a mohair yarn to add strength and texture. The edge of the shawl is finished with garter stripes using the yarns held single to simulate lace.
Finished measurements
Length measured along center spine: 18-3/4 inches (46 cm)
Neck circumference: 11-1/2 inches (58 cm)
Wingspan (measured flat): 21 inches (53 cm)
Yarn
MC: Kelbourne Woolens Cricket (100% Merino wool; 415 yards (380 m) per 3.5-ounce (100-g) skein); 1 skein or 200 yards (183 m) of sport weight yarn (sample uses 412 Navy)
CC: Kelbourne Woolens Harmony (72% kid mohair / 28% mulberry silk; 230 yards (210 m) per 0.8-ounce (25-g) skein; 1 skein or 212 yards (194 m) of laceweight yarn (sample uses 042 Shale)
Gauge
18.5 stitches and 37 rows to 4 inches (10 cm), with MC and CC held together, over garter stitch worked flat (blocked)
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- First published: August 2026
- Page created: August 1, 2026
- Last updated: August 1, 2026 …
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