i tried to start this with a magic circle (which i am not overly fond of but the instructions called for). but i couldn’t imagine doing 20 4ltr into a circle of thread with no substance. so, i did 20 sc into the magic circle and then worked the 4ltr into them. this was MUCH easier for me with no visible difference in the pattern.

i started with a smaller hook, size H, for the first row. this was easier to work with because i am using thread and it wasn’t so loopy. on row 2, i changed to the size I hook and i increased to a 5ltr. i know from experience that i am taller and i need more depth in these shawls. i try to match the original pattern as closely as possible and still get my length.

when i moved to the border, i used a J for the border and an I for the stitches on each end.

i have discovered that if i work the very first ltr of each row and the last ltr of each row with the smaller hook that it is easier for me to see my chains and humps in the thread. plus it keeps it just a bit tidier looking.

row 8 - i suggest you count your stitches across (just in case you added rows or made a mistake or something)

then divide by 2 and place a marker in the center (just to help you aim)

i added rows but was confused when i was trying to figure out how to place my shells. it seems that all the notes i read FORGOT that you have a half shell on each end (it’s a full shell but only half is connected to the base row).

BEFORE you start row 8 - count your stitches and figure your shell placement. it will save you SO much time if you are off in your stitches a bit. this way you can work out how you need to do them without a lot of frogging.

How to add up your count of stitches needed -
i lengthened mine so i had 6 shells per side.

shell on each end uses only 9 stitches to join
9 stitches * 2 = 18

center picot + 5 picots per side = 11

Number or shells per side not counting end shell:
this is the count i used to make my shells
8 + 1 + 9 = 18 stitches

18 stitches each * 5 = 90 * 2 = 180

my count was:
18 + 11 + 180 = 209 stitches

original pattern (the only way i can make the numbers work) - 5 shells on each side.

first shell uses 9 stitches to connect to the base row on each end = 18 stitches total

center picot + 4 picots on each side = 9 picots

4 center shells on each side using 8 + 1 + 8 = 17
17 * 8 shells = 136

136 + 9 + 18 = 163 stitches.

^to join your shells with only 8 stitches you will need to go through 4 loops on the join at the base. i find that not joining through the base loop that all the other stitches are centering out of caused an unsightly lump. much preferable to have it smooth.

i have tried a Russian join with the thread. that was interesting … it works well if you have the patience and a small enough tapestry needle.

i am adding 3 rows to the fan border to give me extra length. this should balance visually with the longer main piece.

this has used a LOT more yardage then the original pattern called for. but i lengthened the center back with more rows and the border with more rows. this looks like it is going to be a nice full size shawl.

Finishing touch - because of my color choices and the thread, i did a row of sc across the long edge. this still did not seem to pull it together so i added a row of crab stitch. it was the perfect finishing touch!

pre-block measurements:
center spine solid triangle - 15”
center width border - 13”
wingspan 88”
center spine 28”

post-block measurements:
wingspan 94”
center spine 30”