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I have watched Vanessa dance through life - literally. She glides so gracefully across the stage. I often think that she beams brighter than the stage lights. Several years ago I enjoyed seeing Vanessa in a local production of the Nutcracker as a Christmas treat. When we heard of her engagement, my husband had the bright idea that I should design a Nutcracker shawl for Vanessa. I laughed initially at the idea, however, the seed was planted and has germinated into this lovely shawl.
Your shawl begins at the top with THE FLOWERS. DEW DROP enters from the wings as THE SUGAR PLUM FAIRY joins the back of the shawl. THE MOUSE KING’s little crown dances across the back just before CLARA dons her petticoat. The Acorn stitch heralds the NUTCRACKER. SNOWFLAKES float across the last section before the border. The final border displays the SOLDIER DOLLS standing in their perfect lines surrounding the CHRISTMAS TREES.

I hope you enjoy knitting this for someone who has danced in your life.

This pattern has been test knit for accuracy. Please let me know if you encounter any issues along the way. Thank you.

Needles: US 6
Yarn weight: Lace/Sock/Fingering
Gauge: 24 stitches/4 inches
Skill: Intermediate to Advanced.
Stitches: Lace and Cable beyond the basic stitches.