Fern Lace Shawlette

Fern Lace Shawlette by Michele Bernstein

What Is Being Made

The Fern Lace Shawlette is an elegant crescent-shaped shawl designed for intermediate knitters. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a graceful, wearable accessory that drapes beautifully around the shoulders. The design was originally featured in the Knit Picks' Under 100 Knit Collection 2014 and has been updated and streamlined for modern knitting classes as of 2020.

Construction Method

This shawlette is worked flat, progressing from side to side rather than from the top down or bottom up. This construction method allows for the gradual increases that create the signature crescent curve of the finished piece. The flat, side-to-side approach also makes it easier to manage stitches and maintain consistent tension throughout the project.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The Fern Lace Shawlette incorporates several key knitting techniques:

• Garter Stitch Body: The main body of the shawlette is worked in garter stitch, which creates a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges. Gradual increases worked into the garter stitch area produce the graceful crescent shape.
• Knit-in I-Cord Edge: A decorative I-cord edge is knit directly into the shawlette, creating a finished, polished border that frames the piece.
• Fern Lace Edging: An intricate lace pattern featuring fern-like motifs adorns the edge of the shawlette, adding delicate detail and visual interest to the finished garment.
• Optional Beadwork: Beads can be incorporated into the design for added sparkle and visual dimension. The beads also contribute weight to the shawlette, which enhances drape and helps the finished piece sit elegantly on the shoulders.

Yarn and Materials

The Fern Lace Shawlette requires 460 yards of fingering-weight yarn (approximately 100 grams). The sample shown in the pattern was knit using Knit Picks Palette, a yarn composed of 100% Peruvian Highland Wool with 231 yards per 50-gram skein. The samples were worked in two colorways: Ivy and Celadon Heather, a soft pale green shade.

Because gauge is not critical for this design, knitters can work with yarn they already have on hand, adjusting yardage as needed. The pattern recommends weighing yarn to ensure sufficient yardage rather than relying solely on skein counts.

Needles and Tools

This pattern calls for US #5 (3.75 mm) needles, available in straight or 24-inch circular configurations, sized to achieve the recommended gauge. A US 13/14 (0.90 mm) crochet hook or a Bead Aid tool is needed if you choose to incorporate beads into the design.

Gauge

The recommended gauge is 20 stitches and 38 rows per 4 inches in garter stitch before blocking. However, the pattern notes that gauge is not critical; knitters should work to achieve a fabric they personally prefer. Adjustments to yardage may be necessary depending on individual gauge.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond the basics. The combination of garter stitch, lace work, and the knit-in I-cord edge requires familiarity with various techniques, though none are considered advanced.