Even though I'm in the middle of my own design projects, a longstanding member of the Ravelry shawl group I co-moderate, Rosalia, posted a new shawl design and was looking for testers. Even though she received plenty of takers (really!), I offered to test her pattern, and she was kind enoungh to say yes. She has not only produced some beautiful shawls over the last three years, but she's been a warm and supportive member of the group, and I was thrilled to be able to support her designing efforts. I've just completed the test, and here's the result:
It's not in the Ravelry database yet, but you can view Rosalia's sample project page. The pattern is "On the Road," and I am thrilled with how this turned out. My version is not quite as deep as Rosalia's sample, but I used a slightly smaller needle size. Additionally, I blocked my lace section more aggressively to open it up, and I added beads along the edge.
I used a wool/bamboo/nylon sock yarn for the main body and edging, and Filatura di Crosa Centolavaggi held double for the lace insert section. Short rows are used in the body and I really enjoyed working them. I only used a little over 60% of the sock yarn skein, so one could add additional rows to deepen the shawl if desired. I really love how the short rows make it hug the shoulders. It's like a sunshine-y hug - thanks Rosalia!
Now definitely head on over to Andrea at Wisdom Begins in Wonder and see how much sunshine everyone else is experiencing this Friday
I'll be back to the House of Bee and KniCroBlo blogging tomorrow. I've actually got a few things to say about tools.
