This colorwork pattern is based on a very old Delft tile design. It is commonly referred to as “jumping rope” (touwtje springen) and was part of the series “children’s games” (kinderspelen), which also includes spinning tops and hobby horse. I originally made the pattern for my version of Kate Davies’ The Shieling blanket.

Any colors may be used for this pattern. However, to approximate a traditional majolica tile, I recommend the choice of a dark blue and a light blue on a white or cream ground.

The design will be approximately square in fingering weight yarn at a gauge of 24 stitches and 30 rows per 4 inches/10cm. After thorough wet blocking, the overall dimensions will be approximately 9¼ inch/24cm.