Penfield

Penfield Lace Shawl by Samantha Guerin

What Is Being Made

Penfield is a triangular lace shawl designed by Samantha Guerin. This knitted shawl features a generous wingspan of 60 inches (152.5 cm) with a center depth of 14.5 inches (37 cm), making it a versatile accessory suitable for layering or wearing as a wrap. The design combines a structured lace pattern with elegant colorwork using two complementary yarns.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This beginner-friendly shawl project employs fundamental lace knitting techniques that are accessible to knitters new to openwork designs. The primary techniques required include:

• Lace increases and decreases — the core skill needed to create the openwork pattern that defines the shawl's aesthetic
• Stockinette stitch — used as a foundational stitch component throughout the construction
• Lace pattern — a repeating motif that creates the shawl's distinctive texture and drape

The lace pattern is worked in a 4-ply yarn weight, which provides excellent stitch definition and allows the intricate increases and decreases to be clearly visible. Stitch markers are essential notions for tracking pattern repeats and maintaining accuracy throughout the project.

Yarn and Materials

Penfield calls for two premium yarns that work in harmony to create depth and visual interest:

• Main Color (MC): Sweet Georgia Yarns Tough Love Sock with Silk Mist — 425 yards per 4 oz skein, composed of 80% Superwash Merino and 20% Nylon. This yarn provides durability and elasticity while maintaining the delicate lace definition.
• Contrast Color (CC): Sweet Georgia Yarns Silk Mist — 325 yards per 0.88 oz (25 g) skein, made from 60% Fine Kid Mohair and 40% Cultivated Silk. This luxurious yarn adds softness and subtle sheen to the finished shawl.

The pattern is worked on US 5 (3.75 mm) circular needles, 24 inches (60 cm) long. Recommended notions include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, stitch markers for pattern tracking, and blocking pins with a blocking mat to set the final measurements and enhance the lace pattern's openwork definition.

Gauge and Finished Dimensions

Proper gauge is critical for achieving the intended finished measurements. The lace pattern should measure 24 stitches and 36 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) when blocked. Stockinette stitch gauge is also 24 stitches and 36 rows over 4 inches (10 cm). Blocking is essential to this project, as it opens up the lace pattern and sets the shawl to its full wingspan and depth dimensions.

Skill Level

Penfield is rated as a beginner project, making it an excellent introduction to lace shawl knitting. While the pattern requires understanding of basic lace increases and decreases, the straightforward construction and clear stitch markers make it accessible to knitters developing their lace skills.