Urdr

Urðr Lace Shawl by Anna Dalvi

What Is Being Made

The Urðr shawl is a circular lace shawl inspired by Norse mythology, specifically the legend of the three Norns who determine the fate of all living creatures. Urðr is the third shawl in a series of three, named after one of the Norns and her sacred well beneath the roots of Yggdrasil, the tree of life. The circular construction represents the shape of a well, with a dark blue center symbolizing deep well water and lace waves spreading outward toward the edging where white foam details form. This design combines mythological storytelling with functional, wearable lace.

Techniques Used

The Urðr shawl is knit in the round from the center outward, a technique that creates the circular well shape central to the design concept. This method allows the lace pattern to radiate from the center point, building complexity and visual interest as the shawl grows. Working from the center out requires careful stitch management and the use of both circular needles and double-pointed needles as the circumference changes.

Stitches Used

The shawl features lace stitches throughout the pattern. Lace knitting involves strategic yarn overs and decreases that create openwork patterns and delicate, airy fabric. The specific lace motifs in the Urðr shawl are designed to evoke waves spreading from the center well, with the pattern becoming more elaborate as it progresses toward the outer edges where the foam-like details appear.

Materials

The Urðr shawl requires 6 ounces of yarn in lace weight. Recommended yarn options from Unique Sheep include:

• Ling (70% merino/30% silk, 1,890 yards per 6 oz set) in a gradient or similar colorway
• Eos (merino/tussah silk blend)
• Marici (100% silk)

The gradient or variegated colorway in Ling is particularly suited to the design, as it naturally creates the dark blue center transitioning to lighter tones and white accents toward the edges. Knitting needles required include 3.5 mm circular needles with an 80 cm cable and 3.5 mm double-pointed needles for managing stitches as the shawl decreases in circumference. Additional supplies include stitch markers and a tapestry needle for finishing.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as beginner-friendly, making it an accessible introduction to lace shawl knitting despite the circular construction and lace techniques involved. The straightforward center-out construction and clear stitch patterns make it suitable for knitters new to lace or circular shawl projects.