Grand Bazaar

Grand Bazaar Shawl by Melanie Berg

Project Overview

Grand Bazaar is an elegant knitted shawl designed by Melanie Berg that combines delicate sophistication with wearable comfort. This intermediate-level knitting project creates an airy lace fabric that drapes beautifully across the shoulders, adding an extraordinary touch to everyday outfits. The shawl measures 95 inches by 14 inches (240 cm by 35 cm), making it a versatile accessory that pairs effortlessly with favorite blouses for an enchanting ensemble.

Design and Construction

Grand Bazaar features an intricate-looking lace pattern that is surprisingly straightforward to execute. The repeating stitch pattern becomes intuitive as you work, allowing knitters to experience quick successes and build confidence in lace knitting techniques. The airy stitch definition creates visual complexity while remaining accessible to intermediate-level knitters. This balance between appearance and execution makes Grand Bazaar an ideal project for those looking to develop their lace knitting skills.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The shawl employs fundamental lace knitting techniques that create an open, flowing fabric. Key techniques include:

• Yarn overs: Used to create the decorative openwork characteristic of lace patterns
• Decreases: The pattern utilizes a slip-slip-knit decrease (abbreviated as dA in the pattern), where two stitches are slipped together knitwise, one stitch is knitted, and the slipped stitches are passed over the knitted stitch
• Repeating motifs: The pattern repeats consistently throughout, allowing knitters to develop rhythm and muscle memory
• Left-leaning and right-leaning decreases: Used strategically to create balanced, symmetrical lace elements

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Grand Bazaar is designed to be worked in 4-ply yarn weight, specifically recommended in Shalimar Yarns Breathless. The yarn composition is 75% Merino wool, 15% cashmere, and 10% silk, creating a luxurious blend that offers softness, elasticity, and a subtle sheen. The total yardage required is 833 yards (762 meters), achieved using two strands of yarn totaling 224 grams. The pattern specifies working with yarn in the "Driftwood" colorway, though other colors from the Breathless line may be substituted based on personal preference.

Tools and Equipment

The shawl is worked on US 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles, which are appropriate for the 4-ply yarn weight and create the correct gauge for the lace pattern. Circular needles are used for this project, allowing for comfortable working of the shawl's width and accommodating the increasing stitch count as the pattern develops.

Difficulty Level

Grand Bazaar is rated as an intermediate-level project, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to explore lace knitting. While the finished appearance suggests complexity, the straightforward repeating pattern and accessible techniques make this an excellent stepping stone into decorative lace work. Knitters will gain confidence through quick successes and the meditative quality of the repeating motif.

Pattern Format

This design is available as a downloadable PDF pattern, providing immediate access to complete instructions, abbreviations, and gauge information for independent knitters.