Valley Yarns Hertford Knitting Pattern

Valley Yarns Hertford Shawlette: Luxurious Lace Knitting Pattern

What Is Being Made

The Valley Yarns Hertford is a sophisticated shawlette designed by Julie Turjoman. This shoulder-warming wrap is an elegant accessory sized at approximately 27½ inches deep by 52½ inches long, making it the perfect size to tuck into a jacket collar or wear while dining out. The finished shawlette combines warmth and style, creating a timeless favorite that works as both a practical everyday accessory and a thoughtful handmade gift.

Techniques and Construction Method

This shawlette employs a bottom-up, seamless construction worked flat in rows using a single piece of knitting. The pattern begins with a minimal number of stitches and expands systematically through strategic increases. The shawlette starts with a single lace pattern repeat, then widens at regular intervals with cast-on stitches added on each side. After each completed 16-row lace repeat, two additional lace pattern repeats are incorporated, creating a gradual widening effect that builds the shawl's distinctive shape.

The construction technique uses the Knitted-On cast-on method, which integrates new stitches seamlessly into the working fabric. A key finishing detail involves slipping the first stitch of every row purlwise to create a smooth, polished edge throughout the garment.

Stitches and Lace Pattern

The Hertford features a simple, easy-to-memorize lace pattern that makes it accessible for beginners while remaining engaging for experienced knitters. The lace pattern repeat measures 12 stitches wide by 16 rows tall, with each repeat equaling approximately 2½ inches by 2½ inches when blocked to the specified gauge. The pattern is worked across multiple repeats simultaneously as the shawlette expands, with locking stitch markers placed between each 12-stitch repeat to help track the pattern progression across the row.

The lace stitches create an open, decorative fabric that showcases the yarn's luxurious qualities while maintaining the warmth necessary for a functional shoulder wrap.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern calls for Valley Yarns Wachusett, a premium blend of 70% Merino Wool and 30% Cashmere. The yarn is worked at a gauge of 20 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches in the lace stitch when blocked. The project requires 4 balls of Wachusett, with each ball containing 50 grams and 163 yards of yardage, providing sufficient yardage for the complete shawlette. The sample shown is worked in color 201077 - Grape, a rich, sophisticated hue.

Additional materials include a US size 8 (5.0mm) circular needle in 24- to 40-inch length (or the size needed to achieve proper gauge), a locking stitch marker, and a tapestry needle for finishing.

Skill Level and Project Details

The Hertford is rated as an Intermediate skill level pattern, making it suitable for knitters with some experience who are ready to tackle lace work. The pattern is available in one size only. The straightforward lace pattern and logical construction method allow even beginners to successfully complete this project, while the luxurious yarn and elegant finished garment appeal to more advanced knitters seeking a satisfying, wearable creation.