Call of the Sirens

Call of the Sirens Lace Stole by Anna Dalvi

Project Overview

Call of the Sirens is an intermediate-level lace knitting stole designed by Anna Dalvi, inspired by Greek mythology. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a sophisticated lace shawl that tells a visual story through its construction and stitch patterns.

Design Inspiration and Symbolism

The stole draws on the Greek myths about the Sirens—legendary creatures whose enchanting calls could bewitch sailors, causing them to forget their identity, destination, and navigation. According to the pattern, these mythological events often resulted in shipwrecks against rocky shores. The design translates this narrative into textile form: the edging of the stole represents the waves of the sea, followed by the rocky shoreline, while the center portion depicts the braided hair of the beautiful Sirens.

Finished Dimensions

• Length: 77.5 inches (197 cm)
• Width: 29.5 inches (75 cm)

Yarn and Needle Requirements

This lace weight project requires materials chosen for their drape and delicacy:

• Yarn: 1.5 skeins of Verdant Gryphon Mithril (100% merino wool; 750 yards per 113 grams), shown in the colorway Ponyter's Andromeda
• Needles: One set of 40-inch US 7 (4.5mm) circular needles, or the size needed to obtain gauge

Gauge and Tension

The pattern specifies a gauge of 16 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches (10 centimeters) when blocked in the lace pattern. Achieving proper gauge is essential for obtaining the finished dimensions and ensuring the lace motifs open correctly after blocking.

Knitting Techniques

Call of the Sirens employs intermediate-level knitting techniques appropriate for crafters with foundational skills. The pattern uses a cabled cast-on with double strand of yarn to begin the piece, creating a sturdy, decorative foundation edge. The construction involves working lace patterns that create the visual elements described in the design—wave motifs along the edges and braided textures throughout the center section.

Lace Weight Knitting

Working with lace weight yarn requires attention to detail and patience. The delicate merino wool used in this project will produce an ethereal, flowing fabric once blocked. Lace knitting typically involves yarn overs and decreases that create openwork patterns, allowing the fabric to drape beautifully while maintaining structural integrity.

Pattern Structure

The pattern begins with Piece A, which is cast on using 93 stitches. The modular construction and use of circular needles allows for comfortable handling of the growing fabric throughout the knitting process.