Betty's Faroese Shawl

Betty's Faroese Shawl by Tanja Luescher

What Is Being Made

Betty's Faroese Shawl is an advanced-level triangular shawl designed by Tanja Luescher. This knitted accessory measures approximately 170 cm (67 inches) in wingspan and 68 cm (27 inches) in depth, making it a generous wrap suitable for layering or draping. The shawl features the characteristic construction method of Faroese shawls, combining lace patterning with a decorative knit-on edging for a refined, finished appearance.

Construction Method and Techniques

Betty is knitted from the top down, a construction approach that allows knitters to try on the piece as it grows and adjust the final size if desired. The shawl incorporates two distinct lace patterns within the body, creating visual interest and texture variation throughout the piece. A lacy knit-on edging is added during the knitting process rather than picked up afterward, streamlining the finishing process. The pattern provides both charted instructions and written instructions, accommodating different knitting preferences and reading styles. Two cast-on options are included, allowing knitters to choose the method that best suits their skill level and aesthetic preferences.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The shawl is worked primarily in stockinette stitch as the base fabric, with lace stitches incorporated into the two distinct patterned sections. The lace patterns create openwork elements characteristic of Faroese shawl design. The pattern utilizes stitch markers throughout construction—specifically 8 stitch markers in two colors (4 of Color A and 4 of Color B)—to help track pattern repeats and shaping increases essential to the triangular silhouette.

Materials and Tools

The recommended yarn is Garnstudio Drops Lace, a luxurious laceweight option composed of 70% alpaca and 30% silk. One hank of Drops Lace in colorway #3620 (Red) provides 100 grams and 800 meters (875 yards) of yardage. Alternatively, approximately 688 meters (753 yards) of any laceweight yarn of choice may be substituted, though yardage and finished size may vary based on gauge. A 3.25 mm (US 3) circular needle measuring 80 cm (32 inches) is specified, though the designer notes that needle size can be adjusted based on individual tension; looser knitters may prefer larger needles to achieve the desired fabric hand. The pattern recommends blocking after completion to achieve the stated gauge of 19 stitches and 32 rows over 10 cm (4 inches) in stockinette stitch, though the designer notes that exact gauge is not vital and variations will affect the finished size and yardage requirements.

Pattern Format and Support

This is a downloadable PDF pattern designed for advanced knitters. The pattern is provided by independent designer Tanja Luescher, who offers direct support to knitters with questions via email at knittedinswitzerland@gmx.ch.