Last month I took part in a test knit for a new pattern by Shara Lambet – the Vela Shawl. My Planina Wrap was make from one of Shara’s patterns, so I was keen to try another. I was also in a bit of a knitting rut. There was nothing I was excited about making, but I didn’t want to take a break from knitting, so I signed up as a tester.
While making the Vela Shawl, I discovered that I’m not a good pattern tester. I picked up some things in the pattern that needed correcting and passed them on, and I finished the shawl in the allotted time. Unfortunately, I delayed blocking and attaching the tassels for too long and didn’t get the final feedback in on time.
Hopefully Shara has forgiven me – and the more reliable testers got their info in on time so the pattern launched on the planned date.
The Vela Shawl is made entirely from mosaic stitch – each row uses only one colour of yarn but stitches are either knit or slipped to achieve the colourwork look.
I used Morris and Sons Estate 4ply – and I wish I’d used something a lot softer. Estate is not soft enough for a shawl that will be worn next to the skin. I’ll still wear it with collared tops or jumpers with higher necks, but I do regret my yarn choice.
I might make this again in a more suitable yarn because I did enjoy the novelty of mosaic knitting. Maybe a soft, non-mercerized cotton would be nice?
Now I’ve got a bit of knitting mojo back I’ve started on a summer top with short sleeves. Sadly the shawl is now in the knitwear drawer waiting for next winter. If I do knit another, I’ll make sure I cast on in April.
