08-05-2017

I decided to go down a needle size since my skein has slightly less yardage than what is recommended in the pattern. Cast-on with Jeny’s super stretchy cast-on

08-26-2017

A few rows into the second set of charts (tail and talons completed, started on torso and wings). This pattern is true lace, meaning there are no resting rows. The effect is stunning and entirely worth the lack of resting rows imo, but I can see the complexity of the pattern driving some knitters insane.

You also have to flip between pages for the various charts that correspond to a single row, but there’s no other way to do it for a design like this. If you can handle all of that, the charts are well written and easy to follow.

10-10-2017

Picked this back up after putting it on hold to finish a few other pieces for the NC State Fair. I forgot what half the symbols meant and for some idiotic reason had stopped mid row, but after struggling for a couple rows I’m back on track! Starting on the upper section of the wings…

10-28-2017

Finished the owl’s head! After so much textural stitching, I’m looking forward to the higher ratio of stockinette stitch to owl XP

11-18-2017

Be careful not to wrap and turn to tightly! I’ve completed the charts, but reworked a whole section of the shawl after realizing my wrap and turns on the right hand side were too tight and were going to result in weird, extra holes.

11-22-2017

Cast off! Used the elastic cast off so that there will be enough stretch for blocking.

12-17-2017

Blocked last night. The neck edge is a bit more lax than I’d like, but the final piece is still stunning. The neck edge might hold up better in a yarn with more animal fiber content.