Tilted Leaves Wrap

Tilted Leaves Wrap by Laurie Beardsley

Project Overview

The Tilted Leaves Wrap is a lacy shawl designed by Laurie Beardsley that combines elegant openwork with a distinctive construction method. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a versatile accessory with a subtle parallelogram silhouette, making it an ideal layering piece for multiple seasons.

What is Being Made

This wrap is a lightweight lace shawl measuring 16 inches by 62 inches (40 cm by 158 cm) after blocking. The finished piece functions as a sophisticated accessory suitable for draping over sundresses and tank tops during warm months, or as a delicate wrap for cooler spring and fall weather. The wrap's elongated rectangular shape with angled edges makes it practical for various styling options.

Construction Technique

The Tilted Leaves Wrap is knit on the bias, a technique that creates the garment's characteristic parallelogram shape. Bias knitting involves working at an angle rather than in straight rows, which produces the subtle slant visible in the finished wrap. This directional construction method adds visual interest and creates natural drape in the fabric.

Stitches and Stitch Work

The pattern features lace stitches that create openwork sections throughout the wrap. The gauge specification of 24 stitches and 32 rows to 4 inches (10 cm) is measured in stockinette stitch with lace weight yarn before blocking. The combination of stockinette sections with lace motifs creates a balanced design that showcases the yarn's qualities while maintaining structural integrity.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

• Yarn: Approximately 600 to 800 yards (550 to 730 meters) of lace weight yarn or light fingering weight yarn
• Recommended Yarn: Select yarns that block well, such as merino or alpaca blends. The pattern sample was created using Knit Picks Alpaca Cloud, which is 100% alpaca at 440 yards per 50-gram skein in the Reed Heather colorway
• Needles: US 5 (3.75 mm) or US 6 (4 mm) circular needle, minimum 20 inches (50 cm) long, or size needed to obtain proper gauge
• Additional Supplies: Yarn needle for weaving in ends and blocking supplies for finishing

Gauge and Sizing Considerations

The pattern specifies a gauge of 24 stitches and 32 rows to 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch with lace weight yarn before blocking. However, gauge is not critical for this project. Variations in gauge will affect the total yardage required and the final dimensions and drape characteristics of the wrap. Using light fingering weight yarn instead of lace weight will result in a larger finished wrap when worked at a larger gauge.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with some experience. The combination of bias construction, lace stitching, and circular needle work requires comfort with these techniques, though the pattern provides guidance for successful completion.

Blocking and Finishing

Proper blocking is essential for achieving the final dimensions and optimal drape of the Tilted Leaves Wrap. The measurements provided (16" x 62") reflect the wrap after blocking, which opens up the lace stitches and sets the shape. Blocking supplies are necessary to achieve professional results and to fully realize the wrap's elegant appearance.