Phoenix New Beginnings

PHOENIX NEW BEGINNINGS **Introduction** *The Phoenix is a bird mentioned in tales of Greek mythology. It is associated with the sun and has many symbolic interpretations. The phoenix is said to be cyclically reborn as it obtains new life by arising from the ashes of its predecessor. Among the symbols are: Life, time, magic, clarity, creativity, protection, immortality, resurrection and transformation.* (If you are curious to learn about how this Phoenix shawl was born, skip to the end text) With this design I wanted to make a simple design with variations to keep it interesting. For a fairly simple crochet, the result is beautiful. The lace pattern, semi circular shape and crisp edge combined, makes for a stylish wrap and drapes nicely around neck and shoulders. It works well with several different kinds of draping styles, depending on the occasion.* **Pattern instructions (US terms):** Fully written Fully charted The written pattern is divided into clear sections and is easy to read and follow. This pattern breaks down every row for you into bite-sized chunks, so they are easy to read. If you sometimes have trouble reading patterns becuase instructions are written so close together, this can be helpful. **2 sets of charts** You'll find two sets of charts in the pattern. One with a white background, if you prefer to print out your charts. The other has a black background that is easier on your eyes if you're reading from a tablet or pc. **Materials** 1. Hook: 4,5 mm (US 7) crochet hook or any hook to obtain gauge. 2. Sport / 5 ply (12 wpi) weight (wool) yarn. **Yardage** You will need approx. 696 yards /640 meters of Sport / 5 ply (12 wpi) yarn I used “Kauni effektgarn”. **Size** Full measurements after blocking (or more): 140 x 62 cm/ 55 x 24.4” **Gauge** Using 4,5 mm hook: 4 rows = approx 7 cm ( 2.8 inch) high and 15 cm ( 5.9”) wide **Stitches used (US terms):** Chain (CH) Slip Stitch (SS) Single Crochet (SC) Double Crochet (DC) Treble Crochet Picot (CH-3, SS into first chain) There are also motifs in the shawl, using the stitches mentioned above. The motifs are explained in the pattern. **Skill level**: advanced beginner/intermediate. **Questions**: you are welcome to ask if you have any questions about the pattern. ***Errata:*** Written pattern, row 11, line 10: beginning "skip 3 st" shouldn't be there. Charts are correct. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **How Phoenix was born....** To be honest, I struggled with this design (or it's predecessor) to begin with. I was determined to keep this one totally simple with v-st and only a very few variations, but it didn't look and especially didn't feel right. I was frustrated out of my mind from working with this design - and surprisingly enough trying to force a specific idea, wasn't good for creativity (wuut??). Maybe you recognise this as a crafter..... I made a whole shawl and ended up ripping until there were only 4 rows left of the original shawl. I then decided to relax with hubby one Sunday afternoon and 4 hours of "House of Cards" later, the new design was born :-) The shawl lit up the room like a little sun on a dark winter night, and when I held it up, my husband said: cool, it looks like a Phoenix! In the process of life right now, to me, the phoenix represents new beginnings, creativity and a promise of summer to come. The northern hemisphere can be pretty dark and cold at this time of year and it felt amazing to create a little sun to shed some light on winter time. Permission to sell finished crochet shawls made from this pattern. Please give credit to Elena Madsen Designs :-) Take 15 % off when buying 3 patterns or more from my shop, coupon: 3FORME **Tip**: sign up to my monthly [newsletter][2] to be notified with new pattern releases, coupons and special offers. [1]: https://www.ravelry.com/groups/indie-design-gift-a-long [2]: http://eepurl.com/bA0qCL