Blossom Blouse

The intricate lace featured in this design uses small shells that gradually build to larger shells, creating the look of a blossoming plant. The effect is echoed in the bell-shaped sleeve and flared hip. The blouse is worked in one piece from the top down with raglan increases in pattern. For the flared sleeve and hip, the basic pattern is enlarged by adding more chains. When yoke is done, chains are worked at each underarm. When beginning body, work into the front loops of these chains. When beginning sleeve, work into the back loops of same chains. Garment is meant to be worn with 0-2" of positive ease. Gauge: 4 repeats = 5.5" and 8 rows = 4" in pattern, blocked.