A little known fact about me: Not only did I get a degree in photography, I also acquired one in ecological and evolutionary biology. Nature has always been my primary source of inspiration when it comes to my art and design work, and it’s no surprise that it showed up in this pattern. I was inspired by plant biology illustrations of stem cross-sections, with the water transport “holes” (xylem and phloem) visible.

When I started spinning yarn for this project, I decided that I wanted a natural green color with lots of heathering. I compiled some soft white wool, bright green alpaca/silk blend, and some black alpaca and started testing mixtures. I spent time sampling each blend with hand carders and a drop spindle, then when I found the right ratios, I pulled out my drum carder and created some rough mixes. I didn’t want my yarn super homogenous, so I purposefully left it variegated. I slightly overspun my singles, so when I plied I would have a high-twist 2-ply yarn ideal for lace.

Though this pi-shawl is relatively straightforward, this pattern does require some focus and attention during the lace rows. The repeat is easy to follow, and creates stunning radial symmetry once the pattern is done.

FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
Diameter: 40 inches/ 102cm

MATERIALS
Fiber:
Hand blended fiber - Wool, alpaca, silk, firestar. Color: heathered green; 6.5 oz

Finished yarn:
Wraps per inch: 22 Fingering weight
Ply: 2
Yardage used: ~670 yards
YPP: 1630
Drafting Method: Short forward draw

Commercial yarn alternative:
Jamieson’s of Shetland Shetland Spindrift 100% Shetland Wool; 115yds/105m per 25g skein; color: Turf or Moorgrass

Recommended needle size
always use a needle size that gives you the gauge listed below - every knitter’s gauge is unique
US #3/3.25mm needles for small circumference in the round
US #3/3.25mm 16-inch/40cm
US #3/3.25mm 24-inch/60cm
US #3/3.25mm 32-inch/80cm
US #3/3.25mm 40-inch/100cm (optional)

Notions
yarn needle
stitch markers – a removable marker is recommended for the first stage of the pattern