Eirwen - cobweb lace stole

Eirwen Cobweb Lace Stole by Judy Furlong

What is Being Made

Eirwen is a delicate intarsia beaded stole designed by Judy Furlong, first published in The Knitter, Issue 66 (December 2013). This is an advanced knitting project that combines ultra-fine cobweb yarn with 4ply equivalent weight yarn to create a sophisticated accessory featuring textured squares and an ornamental lace border embellished with glass beads.

Yarn and Materials

The stole is constructed using a combination of cobweb weight yarn and 4ply jumper weight yarn, creating an interesting textural contrast. The pattern also incorporates glass beads that are applied using a very fine steel crochet hook to add sparkle and visual interest to the finished piece. Care must be taken when working the delicate cobweb yarn to prevent breakage during the finishing and dressing process.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This advanced project employs several specialized knitting techniques:

• Intarsia knitting – used to incorporate the beaded design elements throughout the stole
• Fisherman's Rib variation – the square sections are worked using a stitch pattern reminiscent of Fisherman's Rib, with knitting into the stitch below to create extra texture and dimensional interest
• Stocking stitch – forms the base fabric of the stole
• Shetland Bead stitch – a more complex lace stitch used in the border to coordinate with the beaded theme
• Bead application – glass beads are added when required during knitting using the fine crochet hook

Pattern Flexibility and Skill Considerations

While the full pattern includes a decorative lace border with the Shetland Bead stitch, the design accommodates knitters of varying experience levels. Those new to lace knitting may choose to work a simpler plain border instead by picking up stitches and casting off using the 2ply jumper weight yarn as specified for the straight edge alternative. This makes the project more accessible without compromising the overall aesthetic of the finished stole.

Construction Notes

Knitters should exercise caution when working the cobweb yarn in combination with the 2ply jumper weight yarn, ensuring the delicate cobweb is not pulled too tightly during knitting, as this may cause it to break during the blocking and dressing stages of finishing.