Peace of Wild Things Shawl

This pattern is the second window of the Knitvent 2018 Collection [available here][1]. ---------------------------------------- -------------------------------- “I come into the peace of wild things who do not tax their lives with forethought of grief. I come into the presence of still water. And I feel above me the day-blind stars waiting with their light. For a time I rest in the grace of the world, and am free.” From “The Peace of Wild Things” by Wendell Berry The holidays are a time for celebration. We fill our homes with decorations, music, special treats and surprises. Sometimes, though, something intrudes on our peaceful bubble of happiness. A dispute in the family, something in the news, anxiety about what the new year will bring. It can be a challenge to reconcile the joy of the holidays with some of the realities of the human condition. Wendell Berry’s gorgeous poem offers us a gentle example for difficult times. When our hearts are troubled, we can step away from stress or strife for just a few moments by escaping into the natural world. I know I always find stillness and comfort there. Whether it’s a weekend deep in the woods or just an hour walking by myself in a city park, in the company of the wild things I can rediscover my peace and carry it home with me for another day. The Peace of Wild Things Shawl is a lovely one-skein project in fingering weight yarn, inspired by the beauty and peace of nature. The graceful crescent shape is so easy to wear, and the little details of this shawl will make it a very special gift for someone dear. It features a smooth stockinette body, as quiet as the still water in the poem, scattered with a sprinkling of optional beads. A deep border of delicate lace makes this shawl the perfect crowning glory for a party frock, but its inherent simplicity means that it is also a wonderful piece for adding a little extra joy to your everyday wardrobe. FINISHED MEASUREMENTS Approximately 142cm (56”) diameter across straight top edge 33cm (13”) neck to bottom edge YARN Circus Tonic Handmade Circus Single Ply Fingering [100% Superwash Merino; 366m/400yds per 100g skein], 1 x 100g skein, Colour: Dove OR Actual Yarn Used: Fingering weight 85g, 311m/340yds. NEEDLES 4mm (US 6), 80/100cm (32/40”) long circular needles (or size to obtain gauge) NOTIONS Tapestry needle BEADS If using beads (optional): U.S. Steel Size 12/1.0mm Crochet hook (or hook small enough to fit through holes in beads) 60 beads / approx. 6g size 6 seed beads (beads used in sample are Miyuki beads) GAUGE 20 sts/32 rows = 10cm (4”) in stockinette stitch after blocking [1]: https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/knitvent-2018