Opus Reticulatum

The opus reticulatum was one of the basic techniques used by Roman stonemasons to build walls: stones were cut in a cubic shape and set at a 45 degree angle, so that the wall looked like a net (rēte in Latin). The stitch I have chosen for this cowl is an intricate lacey pile of diamonds reminding of the structure of an opus reticulatum wall. The gradient yarn interacts with the stitch so that each tier of diamonds has a distinctive color. Opus reticulatum is knitted seamlessly in the round with a 24” (60 cm) long circular needle (you may also fit the knitting on a 16”/40 cm long). The top border is narrower due to using a slightly smaller needle and thanks to the ribbing. The lower border is knitted in a lacey rib that sits wider on the shoulders.