Callidora

Callidora Lace Scarf by Henna Markkanen

What is Being Made

Callidora is a longish rectangular lace scarf designed by Henna Markkanen. The finished scarf measures 12 inches by 79 inches (30.5 x 200 cm), making it an elegant accessory suitable for various styling options. The design features two distinct lace pattern sections: one for the long body portion of the scarf and a separate lace pattern for the two edges, creating visual interest and sophisticated detailing throughout the piece.

Techniques Used

This advanced-level knitting pattern employs several key techniques to achieve its refined aesthetic. Provisional cast on is a central technique used in this pattern to ensure that the two edges of the scarf are almost identical, creating a balanced and professionally finished appearance. This method allows knitters to pick up live stitches later in the construction process, enabling seamless edge work.

The pattern also involves retrieving provisional stitches, which requires carefully unraveling waste yarn from the cast-on edge. Knitters begin by releasing the waste yarn from the last chain loop and pulling it carefully to expose live stitches, which are then slipped to a fine needle for continued work. This technique is essential for creating the matching lace edges that define the scarf's design.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

Callidora features lace stitches as the primary stitch pattern throughout the design. The pattern provides both written and charted directions for the lace work, accommodating different knitter preferences and skill levels within the advanced category. The two different lace patterns—one for the body and one for the edges—work together to create depth and visual complexity in the finished piece.

Materials

The pattern calls for 580 yards (530 meters) of light fingering weight yarn. Yardage may vary depending on yarn substitution, so knitters should verify yardage requirements when selecting alternative yarns. The pattern also requires a fine needle appropriate for fingering weight yarn and provisional cast-on work, as well as a crochet chain for the provisional cast-on method. Knitters should begin and end the crochet chain several loops from the ends to ensure adequate working length.

Pattern Details

This is a downloadable PDF pattern suitable for private, noncommercial use. The pattern is copyrighted by Henna Markkanen (2014), with photographs copyrighted by Clotheshorse. For questions or comments about the pattern, contact henna.markkanen.designs@gmail.com.