Millefiore

This versatile beaded trio is marvelously decorative, like the millefiore, or thousand-flowered beads that originated in Italy. Millefiore beads look very mandala-like, and I thought it a very appropriate name for a beautifully beaded garment that is knit entirely in the round. Pattern is written and charted. Beads are added by two methods: pre-stringing and the crochet hook add-as-you-go technique.

In each piece, the lace pattern begins at the bottom with a scallop, then becomes a charming textured lace pattern that is lightly shaped as it goes up toward the top. Wimple is long enough to gently cover the head. Wristlets can be worn either way: scallops extending over the hand, or toward the elbow.

Bead requirements: Size 6/0 round or 4 mm magatama seed beads, 60 (180, 222) for pair of wristlets (cowl, wimple)