Beeton Counterpane Shawl
3rd October, 2011 | 
Layers | 
20 Comments | 
tags: counterpane, lace, shawl.
UPDATE: The Beeton Shawl has now been published! Click here to download the pattern.
Perhaps I should love all my creations equally, but I can’t help it. This shawl is definitely my most favourite design to date. I loved knitting it (so quick & easy) and I love wearing it (so big & bold & warm). Can you see how it’s constructed? First of all you knit a central square, in this case I used a counterpane design from Mrs. Beeton’s Book of Needlework. Then you bind off the top of the square, and knit 3 triangles onto the other sides. That’s it! As well as this pattern, I’m also working on a short guide to knitting these “counterpane shawls” as I call them. In the meantime though, I’m looking for a few test knitters for this one – 2 for the large size, and 2 for the small size (shown). Thanks, everyone! I’ve now emailed my lovely test knitters. Here are the details:
YARN: I used an aran-weight yarn doubled up, but you can use a bulky/super bulky yarn like Rowan Big Wool or Blue Sky Alpacas Bulky. Approx. 600m / 656yds [800m / 875yds] of aran-weight yarn held double (including yarn needed for fringe). or approx. 350m / 383yds [465m / 509yds] of super bulky yarn. (Remember that if you use super bulky yarn, your fringe will also be chunkier).
NEEDLES: 12mm (US 17) 80cm / 32in long circular needles.
GAUGE: Isn’t too important, as long as the lace looks open & clear. The central square will be about 44 [58]cm wide, and the total wingspan around 170 [220]cm.
DEADLINE: 17 Oct. Should be pleeenty of time as these knit up really quick.
If you’re interested, leave a comment below & I’ll get in touch. :)
coming soon!
coming soon!
I’ll test knit for you! :-)
I saw this on Ravelry on my friends activity and loved it. I’d like to test knit, too!
Oops. I forgot mention, you pm me on Ravelry as craftycavy.
This is beautiful! The construction is fascinating.
Thanks so much, Andi! I love your work. :)
I will be glad to knit for you. I need a shawl to contribute to my church auction Oct. 29 and this would be perfect!
Ooh, great excuse! :)
Saw this on my twitter feed and it’s so super cute! I would love to be a test knitter! Either snowpupgirl at ravelry, or same name at gmail dot com. ;)
hmm..it is too late for test knit? If not I will happy to test it .
I don’t know if I am a good tester but would love to buy the pattern..Julianne
are you still looking for tester? is there a plan to sell the pattern
Hi Julianne, I’ve emailed you in case you do want to test knit, but yes, the pattern will be available for purchase in a couple of weeks or so. :)
Very interested to test your pattern, looks just lovely!
wow, looks so gorgeous!!
Thanks so much, Julie! You’re very sweet. :)
[...] test knitting this for one of my favorite bloggers. Doesn’t look like much yet, but will soon. I love the [...]
I loved your project, simple and quickly. As soon as possible I’ll try to knit a similar one. Will you purchaise it?
Wil happily test knit for you?
l hope the pattern will be available soon.
lts really lovely and more important, its different.
Are you still looking for test knitters? If not, when will the pattern be available.
Thanks, Laura
I love the story and video giving the history behind the shawl. It makes knitting itso much more meaningful and also provides insight as to why you designed it.