Blooming Stitch Shawl

Inspired by the peonies and lilies blooming in and around our southern township of Troy, South Carolina, the main stitch pattern is a version of the Blossom Stitch found in many Estonian lace patterns and is expanded and modified for presentation in this pattern. The shawl can be started with either Five or Seven leaves with instructions provided for both styles. Beginning with a provisional cast on, five or seven leaves are produced in this neck down pattern which lead into blooms that cascade and surround the shoulders and back. Increases at each side of this shawl produce a shallow yet elongated style in a semi-circular shape with a slight flare at the wingtips, scallop edging, somewhat crescent shaping and finished with a chain crochet bind off. Once blocked, the lace is pronounced and drapes well to produce a light and delicate shawl. Approximately 575 yards of lace weight yarn is needed for the Five Leaves style as written and is not intended for enlargement. 675 yards is needed