Flame Keeper Shawl

Flame Keeper Shawl by Laurie Beardsley

What Is Being Made

The Flame Keeper Shawl is a triangular knitted shawl designed by Laurie Beardsley and inspired by Mary Chapin Carpenter's song "A Keeper for Every Flame." This elegant accessory features a lace pattern that visually resembles large and small flames dancing across the fabric. The shawl is available in three sizes to suit different preferences: Xsmall with a 25-inch wingspan and 16-inch depth, Small with a 46-inch wingspan and 21-inch depth, and Medium with a 56-inch wingspan and 25-inch depth.

Construction Technique

The Flame Keeper Shawl is worked from the center outward, a classic construction method for triangular shawls that allows knitters to easily adjust the final size by continuing to work additional pattern repeats. This center-out approach creates a naturally symmetrical design and provides flexibility for customization based on available yarn quantities.

Stitches and Lace Pattern

The shawl showcases a lace pattern specifically designed to evoke the visual impression of flames in various sizes—both large dramatic flames and smaller, delicate ones. The lace work creates an open, airy fabric with the characteristic eyelets and decreases typical of flame-inspired stitch patterns. Knitters will use standard knitting techniques including yarn overs, decreases, and stitch markers to maintain pattern accuracy throughout the project.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Flame Keeper Shawl is worked in fingering weight yarn, a fine yarn that creates delicate, detailed lace work. Yarn requirements vary by size: the Xsmall requires 300-325 yards, the Small requires 350-400 yards, and the Medium requires 550-600 yards. Knitters will need a US 5 (3.75 mm) circular needle measuring 24 to 48 inches in length, or the size needed to achieve the specified gauge. Additional supplies include blocking supplies to set the lace pattern, a yarn needle for weaving in ends, and four stitch markers for tracking pattern repeats.

Gauge and Finishing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 stitches over 4 inches in the lace pattern after blocking. While gauge is noted as not critical for this project, variations in gauge will affect both the total yardage required and the ultimate size and drape characteristics of the finished shawl. Proper blocking is essential for opening up the lace pattern and achieving the intended finished dimensions and flow.

Skill Level

The Flame Keeper Shawl is rated as a beginner-friendly knitting project, making it accessible to knitters new to lace work while still offering the satisfaction of creating a beautiful, wearable heirloom piece.