The Russell Shawl

Appearances can be deceiving. Take a second look. This is not your typical half-circle shawl.

It begins at the outer perimeter with an innovative decorative edge created for this design and then works gradually, in an orderly, symmetrical fashion to the center. The shaping is worked symmetrically, progressively, and subtly—keeping the decreases from becoming the dominant design element. There is no “spoke” (as is created when shaping is worked every row) or ruffle effect (as is created when stitch counts are halved in a single row). The bands of garter stitch striping against a stockinette background are simply created and visually appealing. The result is wrap that is fluid and elegant and yet surprisingly accessible to a newer knitter.

The shawl is named for the character Mary Russell from Laurie R. King’s Beekeeper’s Apprentice. I admire both this character and the storytelling of her creator tremendously. I would like to think Russell would appreciate the