Freosan

Freosan Knitted Shawl by Bristol Ivy

What is Being Made

Freosan is a crescent-shaped knitted shawl designed by Bristol Ivy. The name references Old English, meaning "to freeze," suggesting a design inspired by winter imagery. This is a substantial wrap-style shawl with finished measurements of 15 1/2" depth and a curved wingspan of 50", making it an elegant layering piece suitable for various occasions and seasons.

Construction and Pattern Technique

The shawl is worked flat from the center of the back neck outward to the hem, using a circular needle to accommodate the increasing number of stitches as the piece expands. The construction method allows for a seamless, organic growth from the neckline, creating the characteristic crescent shape. The pattern incorporates strategic color work using intarsia technique, with the side panels worked in the main color and the center section striped with a contrasting color for visual interest and design complexity.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The shawl features a garter tab cast-on at the center back neck, which serves as the foundation for the expanding body. The primary stitch pattern is worked in stockinette stitch in the main color, with lace elements incorporated throughout the design. Double yarn overs are utilized in the lace sections and are counted as two stitches each when tracking stitch counts during construction. The combination of stockinette and lace creates textural variation and a delicate, sophisticated appearance.

Yarn and Materials

Main Color (MC): Haymarket by Lorna's Laces, 100% Blue-Faced Leicester wool, 215 yards per 100 grams. The pattern requires 2 skeins, totaling 410 yards in the color Chino.

Contrast Color (CC): Air by Zealana, a luxury blend of 40% cashmere, 40% possum, and 20% silk, 191 yards per 25 grams. The pattern requires 1 ball, totaling 125 yards in Natural.

Needles: One 32-inch circular needle in US size 7 (4.5 mm) or the size needed to achieve proper gauge.

Additional Notions: A tapestry needle for weaving in ends and stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats.

Gauge and Finishing

The gauge is 15 1/2 stitches and 23 1/2 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch using the main color only, measured after moderate lace blocking. Proper gauge is essential for achieving the intended finished measurements and ensuring the shawl drapes correctly.