Product Description
Velvet Rose is part of the Dream Big 2014 Collection
There is a KAL underway for this pattern on the [Curious Handmade board][1] until 8 August and the prize is a skien of Wollmeise lace!
Velvet Rose is named to match the downy pink effect created by the gorgeous Wollmeise yarn in the original sample.
It is a delicate yet seductive shawl in a semicircular shape, created using sock weight yarn. The deceptively intricate-looking lace panel is easy to memorise, making this shawl ideal for both an intermediate or adventurous beginner lace knitter. The picot bind off gives a beautifully eye-catching trim.
She may be demure rose, but she’s certainly no shrinking violet!
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A big shout out to my fabulous test team: Tinkhickman, LouiseTilbrook, Stellacometa, LauraknitsPA, LaineSelect, RitaMiller
Velvet Rose Shawl by Helen Stewart
What is Being Made
The Velvet Rose Shawl is a delicate, semicircular lace shawl designed by Helen Stewart. Named for the downy pink effect created by the original Wollmeise yarn sample, this shawl measures approximately 112cm (44 inches) in diameter across the straight top edge, with a depth of 48cm (19 inches) from neck to bottom edge. The shawl combines elegance with wearability, offering a sophisticated accessory that works for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Techniques and Construction
The Velvet Rose Shawl employs advanced lace knitting techniques despite its deceptively intricate appearance. The design features a lace panel that is easy to memorise once established, making it suitable for both intermediate knitters and adventurous beginners exploring lace work. The shawl's semicircular shape is achieved through strategic increases and lace patterning that creates visual interest without overwhelming complexity.
A signature design element is the picot bind off, which provides a beautifully eye-catching decorative trim along the finished edges. This finishing technique adds refinement and visual appeal to the completed shawl, creating a polished, professional appearance.
Stitches Used
The pattern employs fundamental knitting stitches combined in lace formations:
- Knit (k) – basic knit stitch
- Purl (p) – basic purl stitch
- Knit front and back (kfb) – an increase stitch
- Knit 2 together (k2tog) – a right-leaning decrease
- Slip, slip, knit (ssk) – a left-leaning decrease created by slipping stitches knitwise
- Slip 2 stitches together, knit one, pass two slipped stitches over (S2KP) – a double decrease that creates elegant lace openings
Yarn and Materials
The Velvet Rose Shawl is designed to be worked in sock weight yarn, specifically using Wollmeise Twin in the original sample. Wollmeise Twin is a high-quality superwash merino blend, composed of 80% Merino Superwash and 20% Nylon, offering durability and easy care. Each skein contains 466 metres (510 yards) and weighs 150 grams. The pattern requires one skein of yarn to complete the shawl.
Sock weight yarn is an ideal choice for lace shawls, as its fine gauge allows for delicate stitch definition while maintaining structural integrity. The merino content provides softness and breathability, while the nylon addition increases durability and elasticity, ensuring the finished shawl maintains its shape through regular wear and washing.
Difficulty Level
This pattern is rated as advanced, though the designer notes it is accessible to intermediate and adventurous beginner lace knitters. The apparent complexity of the lace panel belies its memorisable repeat, making it an excellent project for knitters looking to develop confidence with lace techniques without requiring constant pattern reference.
Specifications
| Brand: | Independent Designer |
| Designer: | Helen Stewart |
| Craft: | Knitting |
| Format: | Downloadable PDF |
| Languages: | English |
| Number of Patterns: | 1 |
| Skill Level: | Advanced |
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