This pattern is intended to show off the lovely colors in a variegated yarn. While “variegated” can be expressed in many different ways in the dye of a skein, I recommend using yarns described as “color bursts,” or something similar. If the yarn has too many colors in it, The texture of the purl stitches will get lost. I used one skein of Mad Hatter Sport by Wonderland Yarns in “City Lights Reflected On Wet Pavement” and was very happy with the result. That being said, this is a very flexible pattern. In fact, it is not so much a pattern as a set of guidelines. Experiment! Have fun! This is a pattern that can be as complex or simple as you like and is great for all skill levels. Block your shawl according to the requirements of your yarn’s fiber. Mine measured 34x22x39 inches, but you can make yours whatever size you want.

This pattern was created out of feelings of loneliness and hope. This past Pride Month, I was having a hard time feeling connected to my queer community. With the added covid restrictions and year plus of isolation, I was not feeling so much queer pride as queer loss. Inspired by the Leonard Cohen lyric “There is a crack in everything/That’s how the light gets in,” I wanted to highlight the bursts of rainbow color in my skein amongst the soupy black. I added yo’s into the variegation so that when held up to the light, the shawl literally lets the light in. I hope that this pattern brings you the lovely wisdom of Mr. Cohen as well, or at least, let’s you show off a cool skein!