Sorry About the Lupins

Sorry About the Lupins Knitted Shawl by Mary-Anne Mace

What Is Being Made

Sorry About the Lupins is a knitted shawl design inspired by the lupine flower – a garden staple and roadside presence. The finished shawl measures approximately 196 cm wide by 88 cm deep, creating a generous triangular or crescent-shaped wrap suitable for layering or draping. This intermediate-level knitting project combines decorative cable motifs with lace sections, resulting in a sophisticated garment that celebrates both the beauty and complexity of its botanical namesake.

Techniques Used

The shawl employs multiple knitting techniques to achieve its textured appearance and elegant drape. Cable knitting forms the primary decorative element, with visible cable motifs defined by structured stitch patterns. Lace knitting sections are incorporated throughout the design, creating openwork areas that contribute to the shawl's lightweight quality and visual interest. Purl columns are strategically placed at the outer edges to frame and define the cable motifs. The construction requires careful attention to blocking, as the shawl stretches considerably more horizontally than vertically, meaning final dimensions will vary based on how extensively the piece is blocked during finishing.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes cable stitches as the primary decorative element, with the visible cable motif spanning approximately 14 cm in width at row 20 and bounded by 27 stitches. Purl stitches create definition columns at the outer edges of the design. Lace stitches form openwork sections throughout the shawl, as indicated by lace section examples provided in the charted portions of the pattern. The combination of these stitch types – cables, purls, and lace decreases and yarn overs – creates textural contrast and visual movement across the finished piece.

Materials

• Yarn: Vintage Purls Sock yarn (75% Superwash merino, 25% nylon); 384 metres or 420 yards per 100 grams
• Yarn Weight: Available in 3-ply, 4-ply, and lace weights
• Quantity Required: Two skeins of Vintage Purls Sock
• Needles: Appropriate needle size for chosen yarn weight (specific needle size referenced in pattern charts)

Pattern Details

The pattern is provided in downloadable PDF format and includes detailed charted sections for the cable and lace motifs. Row-by-row guidance is given, with specific measurements provided at key points such as row 20. The design uses a charted approach for lace sections (Chart D rows 15-30 referenced) and cable definition, making it suitable for knitters comfortable reading knitting charts. The intermediate difficulty level reflects the combination of cable work, lace knitting, and the precision required for proper shaping and blocking of this larger garment.