Product Description
When in Rome is a top-down crescent shawl that embraces the beauty of lace right from the start. Working in set repeat sections the stitch pattern works to create solid sections of stockinette indented by circular filigrees. These shapes continue all the way down the body where at the border they open out into lacy fans along the edge of the shawl. This pattern is a reminder to stop for a moment and take notice of the small intricacies that fill our world with beauty, be it in Rome, down your local street, or wherever your future travels may take you!
The shawl uses 1 skein of 100g 4ply, sock or fingering-weight yarn. The sample shawl was worked in Under the Olive Tree Knits Steni Vala 4ply yarn, a lustrous and velvety blend of merino and silk.
Links to video tutorials for the lace stitches are provided in the pattern and the pattern has been tech edited and test knitted prior to publication.
When in Rome Knitted Shawl by Jem Arrowsmith
What is Being Made
When in Rome is a top-down crescent shawl designed by independent designer Jem Arrowsmith. This intermediate-level knitting project draws inspiration from architectural details photographed at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, specifically a blue and gold door panel featuring filigree patterns. The shawl combines solid stockinette sections with delicate lace elements, creating a sophisticated accessory that celebrates both classical design and contemporary knitting techniques.
Design and Construction
This shawl is constructed using a top-down approach, beginning at the crown and expanding downward to create the characteristic crescent shape. The pattern works in set repeat sections, allowing knitters to establish a rhythm while executing the intricate stitch work. The design philosophy emphasizes lace from the beginning of the project, integrating decorative elements throughout rather than reserving them for a final border.
Stitch Techniques and Pattern Details
The stitch pattern creates a striking visual contrast between solid sections and decorative elements. Stockinette stitch forms the foundation of the shawl, providing clean, smooth fabric that allows the lace work to stand out prominently. Circular filigree patterns are strategically placed throughout the body of the shawl, creating indented sections that add visual interest and depth. As the shawl expands toward the lower edge, these filigree motifs transition into open lacy fans that form the border, allowing the lace to become increasingly prominent and airy toward the finished edge.
Yarn and Materials
When in Rome is worked in 4-ply yarn weight, a lightweight fingering-weight yarn that provides excellent stitch definition for both the stockinette sections and the delicate lace patterns. The 4-ply weight allows the filigree details to remain visible and elegant without excessive bulk, while still providing adequate fabric structure for a wearable shawl. Appropriate knitting needles for 4-ply yarn are required to achieve proper gauge and fabric characteristics.
Skill Level
Rated as an intermediate knitting project, When in Rome requires competency with lace knitting techniques, including yarn overs, decreases, and reading lace charts. Knitters should be comfortable with top-down construction methods and maintaining consistent tension across set repeat sections. The intermediate difficulty reflects the coordination needed to execute filigree patterns and manage the expanding stitch count as the shawl grows from the crown outward.
Format
This pattern is available as a downloadable PDF, providing immediate access to complete instructions and stitch charts for independent knitters.
```Specifications
| Brand: | Independent Designer |
| Yarn Weight: | 4 Ply |
| Pages: | 9 |
| Designer: | Jem Arrowsmith |
| Craft: | Knitting |
| Format: | Downloadable PDF |
| Languages: | English |
| Number of Patterns: | 1 |
| Skill Level: | Intermediate |
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