Willow & Lark Bethany Shawl Knitting Pattern

Willow & Lark Bethany Shawl

What is Being Made

The Bethany Shawl is a long lace shawl designed by Amanda Crawford, inspired by the intricate workings of old-fashioned beehives. This is a generous wrap-style shawl measuring 200 cm in length and 35 cm in width, making it a substantial accessory suitable for layering or draping. The design showcases delicate lace patterning throughout, creating an elegant and timeless piece.

Techniques Used

This shawl is worked flat on straight needles using lace knitting techniques. The primary stitch pattern featured is the horseshoe lace stitch, which creates the characteristic openwork and flowing aesthetic of the finished garment. Lace knitting requires careful attention to yarn overs and decreases to form the decorative holes and motifs that define the pattern. This is an advanced-level project, suitable for experienced knitters who are comfortable reading lace charts and managing the rhythm of repeating stitch sequences.

Stitches and Pattern Details

The pattern uses standard knitting abbreviations and fundamental stitches including knit (K), purl (P), and slip stitches (sl 1). The horseshoe lace stitch is the signature element, repeated across the width of the shawl to build the lace pattern. Knitters will encounter pattern repeats indicated in round brackets, requiring them to work the same sequence of stitches multiple times as directed. The pattern also incorporates techniques such as passing slipped stitches over (psso) to create decreases that balance the yarn overs characteristic of lace work.

Materials and Tools

• Yarn: Willow & Lark Plume, a luxurious blend of 70% mohair and 30% silk. The pattern requires 6 balls of 25g (0.9 oz) each. Suggested colourways include Wisteria (312) and Windemere (321), though alternative colourways are available.
• Needles: One pair of 4.00mm (UK 8 / US 6) knitting needles
• Tension: 30 stitches and 32 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over the main pattern using 4.00mm needles. Checking tension before beginning is essential to ensure the finished shawl matches the intended dimensions and appearance.

Design Notes

The Bethany Shawl is part of Willow & Lark's Best of British Collection. The pattern is specifically designed to be knitted using Willow & Lark Plume yarn; the fibre composition, weight, and twist of this yarn directly impact the drape and final appearance of the shawl. The soft mohair-silk blend creates a luxurious hand and beautiful light-catching quality that enhances the lace pattern. Knitters are advised to use the recommended yarn to achieve results consistent with the designer's vision and the images provided in the pattern.