Barcarole

Barcarole Lace Shrug by knitforsweet

What is Being Made

The Barcarole is a lace shrug designed for children, available in sizes ranging from 18-24 months through 9-10 years old. This garment is sized by actual chest measurements, ranging from 20.5 inches (52 cm) for the smallest size to 27 inches (70 cm) for the largest size. The shrug features an elegant lace pattern construction suitable for warm-weather wear.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This advanced-level knitting project employs several sophisticated techniques to create the finished shrug. The pattern utilizes reverse stockinette stitch as a foundational element, worked by purling right-side rows and knitting wrong-side rows to create a smooth, textured base. The primary design feature is an intricate lace pattern that is charted to show right-side rows only, with wrong-side rows worked according to the established pattern, incorporating yarn overs with purl stitches to maintain the lace structure.

The construction method involves working from a lace chart with a clearly defined pattern repeat shown in a red-bordered area. This charted approach allows for precise stitch placement and pattern development. The garment requires blocking after completion and is designed to stretch slightly to fully open and display the lace pattern.

Stitches Used

• Reverse stockinette stitch (purl on right side, knit on wrong side)
• Yarn overs (paired with purl stitches on wrong-side rows)
• Charted lace stitches as indicated in the pattern repeat

Materials and Tools

The Barcarole is worked in sport-weight yarn using 100% cotton fiber, specifically Mondial Surf yarn. Yarn requirements vary by size: smaller sizes (18-24 months through 5 years) require 2 skeins of 50g yarn (160 meters per skein), while larger sizes (6-7 years and up) require 3 skeins. This fiber content makes the finished shrug ideal for warm climates and seasons.

The pattern calls for US 2½ to 3.0 mm needles for the main knitting work, with a gauge of 24 stitches and 28 rows measuring 4 inches in the lace pattern when blocked and slightly stretched. Additionally, a crochet hook size 2.5 and a tapestry needle are required for finishing work, including seaming and weaving in ends.

Difficulty Level

This project is classified as advanced difficulty, reflecting the complexity of working lace patterns from charts, managing yarn overs, and executing reverse stockinette stitch with precision. Knitters should have solid foundational skills before undertaking this pattern.