Sherwood

Sherwood Beaded Knit Stole by Susan Pandorf

What Is Being Made

The Sherwood is an original beaded stole designed by Susan Pandorf, featuring sunflower-inspired motifs. This rectangular shawl measures 15 inches wide by 72 inches long, making it a versatile accessory suitable for draping across shoulders or wearing as a decorative wrap. The design incorporates beadwork throughout, elevating it from a simple knit to an embellished heirloom piece.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is executed entirely through knitting, with integrated beading techniques. The beading method used is a beaded cast-on, where seed beads are threaded directly onto the yarn before beginning. As you work the long-tail cast-on with beads positioned on the left-hand thumb, beads are secured into the foundation edge of the stole. This technique requires careful planning to ensure sufficient tail length is maintained throughout the casting-on process to prevent beads from sliding off the working end.

Stitches and Stitch Work

The primary stitch structure is stockinette stitch, which forms the base fabric. The pattern includes charted stitch sequences that create the sunflower design elements. Designers recommend thoroughly reviewing all stitch notes and charts before beginning to prevent complications during execution. The gauge is 5 stitches in stockinette stitch equals 1 inch when blocked, which is typical for laceweight yarns and ensures proper drape and finished dimensions.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Sherwood requires 800 meters (875 yards) of heavy laceweight yarn. The original model was knit using Handmaiden Sea Silk in the Forest colorway, though any compatible heavy laceweight yarn may be substituted. Beading components include 1200 size 8/0 seed beads; the model uses Miyuki #0311 Topaz Gold Luster beads for a warm, shimmering accent.

Tools and Equipment

• Size 4 (US) knitting needles for the main fabric
• Beading needle for threading beads onto yarn
• Crochet hook used as an alternative beading tool during construction

Difficulty Level and Skill Requirements

This project is rated as intermediate difficulty. While stockinette stitch itself is fundamental, the combination of beaded cast-on techniques, chart reading, and bead integration throughout the piece requires prior knitting experience and comfort with specialized beading methods. The designer emphasizes preparation and planning as essential to successful completion.