Arbors and Vines

Arbors and Vines Rectangular Lace Knit Wrap

What is Being Made

Arbors and Vines is a rectangular lace knit wrap designed by Michael Harrigan. This elegant shawl measures 17 x 61 inches (43.2 x 155 centimeters) when finished, making it a versatile accessory suitable for draping across the shoulders or wearing as a decorative wrap. The design features intricate lace patterns depicting arbors and vines as the central visual elements, creating a nature-inspired aesthetic.

Techniques and Stitch Patterns

This intermediate-level knitting project combines multiple techniques to create visual depth and texture:

• Lace Patterns: The primary design feature incorporates lace patterns of arbors and vines that form the focal point of the wrap
• Turkish Faggoting: Decorative panels of Turkish faggoting link the lace pattern sections together, adding structural interest and creating visual transitions between design elements
• Seed Stitch Borders: Seed stitch borders frame the entire wrap, providing a finished edge and textural contrast to the openwork lace sections
• Seed Stitch Construction: The seed stitch pattern alternates knit and purl stitches on every row (K1, P1 repeat on odd-numbered stitches), creating a bumpy, textured fabric that resists curling and provides stability

Materials and Equipment

The wrap is constructed using Eden Cottage Yarns BOWLAND 4-PLY, a premium yarn choice for lace knitting. The project requires 2 skeins of this yarn, with each skein containing 100 grams and 400 meters (436 yards) of fiber. The yarn is composed of 100% Bluefaced Leicester Wool in the colorway Thunder, offering excellent stitch definition for displaying intricate lace patterns.

Knitters will need US Size 3 (3.25mm) needles or the appropriate needle size to achieve correct gauge. A tapestry needle is required for finishing and weaving in ends.

Gauge and Pattern Specifications

The specified gauge is 19 stitches and 30 rows per 4 inches (10 centimeters) when measured after blocking. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the correct finished dimensions and ensuring the lace patterns display as intended. The designer notes that each pattern repeat spans approximately 4 inches in length, allowing knitters to customize the wrap's length by adjusting the number of pattern repeats if desired.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle lace knitting techniques. The combination of lace patterns, Turkish faggoting, and seed stitch requires comfort with reading lace charts and managing yarn overs and decreases, but the structured design provides clear visual guides for pattern placement.