This pattern has been revised May 29, 2012 to include written instructions to the charts. I have also updated the pattern with new and improved charts and updated the instructions for clarity. I hope you enjoy this new version of the Calais Shawl Pattern :)

Zuzinick has very kindly translated the Calais Shawl into the Czech language. Her translation may be found here.
Thank you very much, Zuzinick!

This shawl pattern was inspired by a beautiful skein of blue yarn given to me by Yarn Candy. It is a wonderful blend of merino and silk and a joy to knit with.

The stitch pattern that I designed for the body of the shawl reminds me alternately of raindrops or tulips depending on the light and perhaps, my mood. I love how the row of eyelets separating the body from the edging gently curves like a wave. The edging is a very popular Estonian pattern and so to honour Estonian knitting I used their traditional double strand cast off which is a favourite of mine. It gives a beautiful, sturdy and defined edge with plenty of stretch for blocking.

I named my shawl after the town of Calais, France, which is on the north coast of France facing England across the narrowest part of the English Channel. I am told that on a clear day you can see the White Cliffs of Dover (England) from the beach. One of their principal industries is Lace Making and Calais Lace is famous throughout the world.
This is an easy knit with quick to memorize pattern repeats.