Lisianthus Wrap

Lisianthus Wrap by Martha Wissing Designs

What is Being Made

The Lisianthus Wrap is an intermediate-level knitted shawl designed by Martha Wissing. This elegant wrap measures 77 inches in length and 16 inches in width, making it a generous accessory suitable for layering or draping. The design features decorative lace edges paired with an eyelet body pattern, creating a refined garment with both visual interest and practical dimensions.

Design Construction Method

The Lisianthus Wrap employs a distinctive two-stage construction technique. The knitter begins by working the first lace edge, then transfers these stitches to a holder to preserve them. The second lace edge is knitted next, and the knitter continues directly into the eyelet body pattern from this edge. Once the desired length is achieved, the held stitches from the first lace edge are grafted to the body of the shawl using the Kitchener stitch, creating a seamless, finished wrap.

Stitches and Techniques Used

• Lace edges: Decorative lace patterning worked at both ends of the wrap
• Eyelet body pattern: Central section featuring eyelet detailing for a delicate, open appearance
• Stockinette stitch: Used as a reference for gauge measurement
• Kitchener stitch: Grafting technique used to seamlessly join the first lace edge to the completed body
• Long tail cast-on: Method used to begin the first lace edge with 75 stitches
• Wet blocking: Finishing technique applied to achieve final measurements and pattern definition

Yarn and Needle Specifications

This wrap is worked in DK weight yarn using Berroco Cambria in the colorway #7902 Snowdrop. The project requires 5 hanks of yarn, with each hank containing 50 grams and 137 yards of fiber. Knitting needles in size 6 (4 mm) are required, with the option of using straight or circular needles for the main construction. An additional spare circular needle of the same size is needed for holding stitches during the wrap's assembly.

Gauge and Finishing Details

Proper gauge is essential for this intermediate project. Before beginning, knitters should achieve a gauge of 21 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in stockinette stitch. After wet blocking, the pattern stitch gauge measures 19 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches, reflecting the fabric's behavior after finishing. Additional supplies include a stitch holder, tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and blocking equipment to set the final dimensions and enhance the lace pattern definition.