Ilex Shawl

Ilex is the Latin name for the holly plant, whose striking leaves and plump berries inspired this piece. Textured stitches dance in an intricate lace pattern along the edge of the shawl, framing cozy rows of garter stitch. The rounded triangle shape achieves a generous wingspan even with limited yardage. In a playful finishing touch, the bind off is decorated with dainty nupps. Instructions are both charted and written out. **Size** - Wingspan: 170cm (67in) - Depth: 40cm (16in) **Yarn** -Fingering weight, 380m (415yds) - Sample yarn: Wonderland Yarns Blossoms (80% superwash Merino wool, 20% nylon), fingering, 100g (31/2oz), 388m (425yds), in Gladiola - The pattern is best suited to solid or tonal colorways **Needles** - 4mm (US 6) straight or circular needles **Gauge** - 18 sts and 40 rows measure 10 x 10cm (4 x 4in) over garter stitch, after blocking - Swatch to determine the needle size that achieves the correct gauge **Construction** - The shawl is worked from a tip towards the bind-off (cast off) edge. - The modified boomerang shape is achieved using a combination of decreases and increases along opposing edges. - The lace edge panel runs along one side of the shawl, the top and bottom finished with Estonian braids. - The bottom edge is worked in garter and the bind off (cast off) is embellished with nupps. - Tassels can be added for a more playful look.